The Communities Committee of Aberdeenshire Council is scheduled to convene on Thursday, 5 November 2026. The meeting's agenda includes discussions on the council's financial performance, consultation responses regarding the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service's Local Plan, and updates on the Museum Service's policies and forward plan. Additionally, the committee will review the Strategic Housing Investment Plan for 2027-2032 and consider the Housing Annual Assurance Statement.

Financial Performance Report 2026/27

The committee is set to receive an update on the financial performance for the 2026/27 period. The report indicates a forecast expenditure of £0.841 million below the revised revenue budget. However, further analysis is required to determine if this underspend is recurring or due to temporary factors. Key areas for scrutiny include the sustainability of the forecast underspend, a high-rated strategic budget risk, and the delivery of £0.150 million in savings that are reported as being at risk. The committee will be asked to consider and comment on the revenue and capital positions, progress with savings, budget risks, and reserves. They will also be asked to approve committee budget virements and agree to receive regular performance reports. The report also details capital programme expenditure, with £4.132 million spent on capital projects within the committee's remit by the end of September 2026, representing 33% of the approved plan.

Consultation Response - Scottish Fire & Rescue Local Plan Aberdeenshire 2026

The committee is scheduled to consider the council's response to the consultation on the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service (SFRS) Local Plan for Aberdeenshire 2026. This response has already been submitted by the Head of Customer & Digital Services under delegated authority. The draft Local Plan outlines how the SFRS intends to work with partners to address local risks and challenges, focusing on prevention, protection, and emergency response. Aberdeenshire Council has expressed strong agreement with the draft plan, particularly welcoming its emphasis on prevention, partnership working, resilience planning, and community safety objectives. However, the council has suggested that the plan should consider how the SFRS will address emergencies related to renewable energy assets and digital infrastructure, such as data centres. The council also seeks greater recognition within the plan for collaboration with a wider range of partners, including housing providers, environmental services, community safety teams, youth justice services, and schools, to address the underlying causes of anti-social behaviour and deliberate fire-setting. The Housing & Building Standards service has requested a commitment to working alongside social landlords and vulnerable communities, acknowledging that tenants and some communities may be at increased risk due to poor housing conditions.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2The Communities Committee of Aberdeenshire Council is scheduled to meet on Thursday, 5 November 2026. The meeting's agenda includes a review of the council's financial performance, a consultation response regarding the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service's Local Plan, and updates on the Museum Service's policies and forward plan. Additionally, the committee will discuss the Strategic Housing Investment Plan for 2027-2032 and consider the Housing Annual Assurance Statement.

Financial Performance Report 2026/27

The committee will receive an update on the financial performance for the 2026/27 period. The report indicates a projected underspend of £0.841 million against the revised revenue budget, though further analysis is needed to confirm if this is a recurring saving. Key areas for discussion include the sustainability of this underspend, a high-rated strategic budget risk, and the delivery of £0.150 million in savings that are currently at risk. The committee is expected to comment on the revenue and capital positions, savings progress, budget risks, and reserves. They will also be asked to approve budget virements and agree to receive ongoing performance reports. The report also details capital programme expenditure, showing £4.132 million spent on projects within the committee's remit by the end of September 2026.

Consultation Response - Scottish Fire & Rescue Local Plan Aberdeenshire 2026

The committee is scheduled to review Aberdeenshire Council's response to the consultation on the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service (SFRS) Local Plan for Aberdeenshire 2026. The council's response, already submitted, expresses strong agreement with the plan's focus on prevention, partnership working, and community safety. However, it suggests the plan should incorporate strategies for addressing emergencies related to renewable energy assets and digital infrastructure. The council also advocates for greater recognition of collaboration with a wider range of partners, including housing providers and community safety teams, to tackle the root causes of anti-social behaviour and deliberate fire-setting. The Housing & Building Standards service has requested a commitment to working with social landlords and vulnerable communities, acknowledging potential risks associated with poor housing conditions.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This agenda item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are designed to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Forward Plan outlines the service's vision, strategic direction, priorities, and risk management approach across Aberdeenshire, encompassing the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Documentation Plan details the work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been conducted, indicating positive impacts on equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is asked to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan outlines Aberdeenshire Council's priorities for affordable housing investment over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP anticipates the delivery of approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant portion, around 613 homes, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, including 196 wheelchair-accessible properties. The plan also aims to deliver approximately 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report acknowledges ongoing challenges in the housing market and construction sector, such as rising costs and labour shortages, which could affect project affordability and viability. The SHIP's delivery is significantly influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details initiatives to bring empty homes back into use and provides data on adaptations completed over the past three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council must submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. This statement addresses tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement confirms compliance with most requirements but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report explains the reasons for these outstanding checks, including void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with continuous monitoring. The committee is requested to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, review the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and direct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any significant changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report seeks the committee's consideration and agreement of the annual report, which incorporates the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report indicates that over the past year, 8,900 families have received support through various initiatives. Key achievements include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households benefiting from reduced food and energy costs. The report also highlights substantial financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, totalling over £12.5 million. The partnership's strategy centres on early intervention and prevention, addressing the root causes of poverty and enhancing individual capabilities. The report acknowledges persistent challenges related to rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and improving rural access to services. Feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees has been incorporated into the final report.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is designated as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning that the public and media will be excluded from this part of the meeting. This exemption typically applies to reports containing sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, concerning expenditure under contracts for property acquisition or the supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details related to contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This agenda item will introduce seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been conducted, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan outlines Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP anticipates the delivery of approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant portion, around 613 homes, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, including 196 wheelchair-accessible properties. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report acknowledges ongoing challenges in the housing market and construction sector, such as rising costs and labour shortages, which could affect project affordability and viability. The SHIP's delivery is significantly influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details initiatives to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the past three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period. The report details the reasons for these outstanding checks, which include void properties, properties undergoing major works, contractor errors, and issues with tenant access or electricity supply. Measures are in place to manage these cases and prevent recurrence, with ongoing monitoring. The committee is asked to acknowledge the requirement for the statement, consider the outcomes and evidence, approve the proposed statement, and instruct the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services to report any material changes affecting compliance.

Tackling Poverty & Inequalities – Annual Report 2025/26

This report requests the committee to consider and agree the annual report, which includes the Aberdeenshire Child Poverty Action Report. The report highlights that over the last 12 months, 8,900 families have been supported through various initiatives. Key outcomes include 77 young people securing employment, 634 priority family parents receiving employability support, and over 12,000 households being supported to reduce food and energy costs. The report also details significant financial gains for residents through income maximisation and welfare advice services, amounting to over £12.5 million. The partnership's approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, tackling the root causes of poverty and building capabilities. The report acknowledges the ongoing challenges of rurality, rising living costs, and transport barriers, and outlines future priorities such as strengthening early intervention, embedding lived experience in service design, expanding targeted employability support, and enhancing rural access to services. The report also includes feedback from the Education & Children's Services Committee and all six Area Committees, which have been incorporated into the final version.

Live Life Aberdeenshire Annual Estate Plan 2026/27

This item is marked as exempt under paragraph 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, meaning the public and media representatives will be excluded from the meeting during its discussion. This typically indicates that the report contains sensitive commercial or financial information, such as details of contracts or expenditure.

Hard Facilities Management (Hard FM) Update

This item is also marked as exempt under paragraph 8 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, relating to expenditure to be incurred by the Council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. This suggests the discussion will involve financial details of contracts or procurement processes.

Museum Service Policies & Forward Plan

This item will present seven new policies, a Forward Plan for 2026-2031, and a Documentation Plan developed by the Aberdeenshire Museums Service. These documents are intended to meet the requirements for Accreditation status. The Museums Service Forward Plan outlines the vision, strategic direction, priorities, objectives, and risk management approach for the service across Aberdeenshire, covering the Museums Headquarters, reserve collections, and museum venues. The Museums Service Documentation Plan details the programme of work to improve the quality, completeness, and accessibility of collections documentation over the period 2026–2031. The committee is asked to consider and endorse these documents. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out, identifying positive impacts for equalities, health and wellbeing, and town centres, with no negative impacts identified.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032

The committee is requested to provide comments and approve the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) for 2027-2032. This plan sets out Aberdeenshire Council's investment priorities for affordable housing over the next five years, aligning with the Local Housing Strategy. The SHIP aims to deliver approximately 2276 new affordable homes, with a focus on social rent, mid-market rent, and affordable home ownership. A significant proportion of these homes, around 613, are planned to be suitable for particular needs, with 196 being wheelchair accessible. The plan also prioritises delivering around 315 units on town centre and brownfield sites. The report highlights the ongoing challenges within the housing market and construction sector, including mixed market conditions, rising costs, and labour shortages, which may influence project affordability and viability. The SHIP is heavily influenced by contributions from the private development industry through affordable housing policies. The report also details efforts to bring empty homes back into use and the number of adaptations completed over the last three years.

Housing Annual Assurance Statement 2026

Aberdeenshire Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to confirm compliance with the Scottish Social Housing Charter and other legal obligations. The statement covers tenant and resident safety, including gas, electrical, water, fire, asbestos, damp and mould, and lift safety. The proposed statement in Appendix 1 confirms compliance with most requirements, but highlights ongoing work to address a number of electrical safety checks that have not been completed within the five-year renewal period