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2024
Primary school provision in our area - Aberdeenshire Council are are seeking views on primary school provision in our area (the Ellon schools cluster) which will help shape the future of education provision. The deadline for responses is Saturday 30 November 2024. Survey available here: https://engage.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/embeds/projects/28647/survey-tools/38037 Please contact LearningEstates@aberdeenshire.gov.uk or call 01771 676600 if you or any member of the community requires a paper copy. (18 November 2024)
Second Community Engagement Event for the Prospective Application for Land at Dams of Craigie, Kingseat, Aberdeenshire – Development of Solar Farm, Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) and Substation, Associated Infrastructure, and Landscaping. Date/time: Tuesday 19 November 2024, 3.00 pm until 7.00 pm Location: Axis Centre, 9 School Road, Aberdeenshire, AB21 0WD Organiser: Blackhall & Powis Ltd (representing the Developers, Lower 48 Energy Limited). Further information is available at the dedicated project website. Members of the Project Team will be happy to answer any questions via the website, by telephone, or email. If you wish to make comments on the proposals, you can do so at the engagement event, or by submitting an online feedback form via the website, or by emailing: DamsofCraigie@blackhallpowis.com All comments should be submitted by Tuesday 3 December 2024. (13 November 2024)
November meeting - we're holding our monthly meeting on Monday 18 November at 6.30pm, in person at Balmedie Leisure Centre with online access. Email belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com if you would like to join the meeting online. Read the agenda online (11 November 2024)
Belhelvie Church Cemeteries meeting & discussion - Saturday 23 November 2024, 12.30pm Forsyth Hall, Belhelvie (opposite Belhelvie Church). This is an opportunity for people who have family / friends in the Belhelvie Church cemeteries (upper cemetery and the lower extension) to discuss the current state of the cemeteries and how to take things forward. The meeting will include a display of photographs and information about the cemeteries. Refreshments (tea, coffee, biscuits) will be available. (Organised by a local resident) (7 November 2024)
Storm Ashley - high winds expected overnight tonight. Yellow warnings for wind are in place across Aberdeenshire from around 3am on Sunday (20 October) until around 9am on Monday (21 October). More about preparing for storms and support in emergencies. (20 October 2024)
Vacancies at Eigie House (Sheltered housing), Balmedie. Aberdeenshire Council currently have a number of vacancies within some of their self-contained one-bedroom flats in Eigie House, Balmedie. The current weekly charges for sheltered housing are: Rent - £78.00 (approx. dependent on property and location) Sheltered Housing upkeep of furniture/equipment - £7.66 Sheltered Housing Heat and Light charge - £47.82 Sheltered Housing Management Charge - £8.28 Housing Support Charges – £21.68 "Sheltered housing allows older people or those with particular needs to live independently, with the right support, in a comfortable and secure environment. It also provides the opportunity for social contact and companionship, but equally respects an individual’s right to privacy. Many sheltered housing communities offer opportunities to engage with other tenants and participate in activities and informal social gatherings, whether that be an afternoon cup of tea or catch up, concerts or crafts, exercises or games. Communal areas such as lounges and gardens provide space for tenants to relax in and socialize and tenants are also regularly consulted on future social activities and encouraged to contribute suggestions for type of activity they prefer." Source: Aberdeenshire Council If you interested in sheltered housing, please contact the Aberdeenshire Council Housing Options Team on 01467 533509. Aberdeenshire Council information about Eigie House (20 October 2024)
Public paths network consultation - we would like to make sure that the public path network in and around the Parish meet the needs and aspirations of everyone living in and visiting our local community. We need your input, knowledge and suggestions to help us understand what might help you and your family to walk, wheel or cycle more. Please share your thoughts and comments on the current paths in our area and tell us about any new routes you would like to see planned for the future by taking the following very short survey, please answer anonymously. Thank you for taking the time to complete the survey, the Community Council will present the findings of the survey back to Aberdeenshire Council in due course. Send us your views through our public paths survey (16 October 2024)
October meeting - we're holding our monthly meeting on Monday 21 October at 6.30pm, in person at Balmedie Leisure Centre with online access. Email belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com if you would like to join the meeting online. Read the agenda online (15 October 2024)
Denview Crescent play park, Potterton - the timber Multi-Play Unit within the Play Park at Denview Crescent in Potterton is deteriorating and needs to be replaced with new play equipment. Aberdeenshire Council are consulting the local community on the type of equipment that would be most suitable for your needs. Deadline: 27 October 2024 Denview Crescent play park consultation (2 October 2024)
Panmure Gardens play park, Potterton - the timber Multi-play Unit and Cone Climber within the Play Park at Panmure Gardens in Potterton have been removed and require replacing with new play equipment. Aberdeenshire Council are consulting the local community on the type of equipment that would be most suitable for your needs. Deadline: 27 October 2024 Panmure Gardens play park consultation (2 October 2024)
Election results - Aberdeenshire Council has published the election results for all Community Councils in their area on their website. Aberdeenshire Community Council election results (1 October 2024)
September meetings - we're holding our inaugural meeting on Monday 23 September 2024, 6.30pm, Balmedie Leisure Centre with online access, followed by the September monthly meeting at 7pm. Please email belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.comif you would like to join the meetings online. Read the agendas online (20 September 2024)
August meeting - we're holding our monthly meeting on Monday 19 August at 6.30pm, in person at Balmedie Leisure Centre with online access. Please note our monthly meetings start at 6.30pm. Email belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com if you would like to join the meeting online. Read the agenda online (9 July 2024)
Aberdeenshire Council are reviewing the Council’s Passenger Transport Strategy- the Council are planning to publish new version early in 2025. The consultation is open from 29 July to 1 September 2024. (4 August 2024)
Vacancies at Eigie House (Sheltered housing), Balmedie -there are currently three one bedroom first floor sheltered flats available. The current weekly charges for sheltered housing are: - Rent - £70.00 (approx. dependent on property and location) - Sheltered Housing upkeep of furniture/equipment - £7.66 - Sheltered Housing Heat and Light charge - £47.82 - Sheltered Housing Management Charge - £8.28 - Housing Support Charges – £21.68 "Sheltered housing allows older people or those with particular needs to live independently, with the right support, in a comfortable and secure environment. It also provides the opportunity for social contact and companionship, but equally respects an individual’s right to privacy. Many sheltered housing communities offer opportunities to engage with other tenants and participate in activities and informal social gatherings, whether that be an afternoon cup of tea or catch up, concerts or crafts, exercises or games. Communal areas such as lounges and gardens provide space for tenants to relax in and socialize and tenants are also regularly consulted on future social activities and encouraged to contribute suggestions for type of activity they prefer." Source: Aberdeenshire Council If you interested in sheltered housing, please contact the Aberdeenshire Council Housing Options Team on 01467 533509. More information about Eigie House on the Council's website (22 July 2024)
Community Council elections 2024 - Community Council elections are changing this year. All Community Councils will be elected in September and all members will need to nominate themselves to continue as Community Councillors. Find out more on our Community Council Election 2024 page (9 July 2024)
July meeting - we're holding our monthly meeting on Monday 15 July at 6.30pm, in person at Balmedie Leisure Centre with online access. Please note our monthly meetings will now start at 6.30pm. Email belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com if you would like to join the meeting online. Read the agenda online (9 July 2024)
Community Council meetings now start at 6.30pm - from July we are moving our meetings forward by 30 minutes. Our monthly meetings will now start at 6.30pm (4 July 2024)
Fortnightly trading standards bulletin - issue 91 (14 June 2024), available to download. From the bulletin (doorstep callers and scams): "One resident in the Garioch area was recently left shaken and frightened after having two cold callers at her door on the same afternoon. Both were male and both worked for the same double glazing company. In itself, this would not be an issue, but on these occasions both males were very pushy, became quite aggressive and would not take ‘no’ for an answer from the resident which takes them into the realms of being rogue traders." For more information and advice from trading standards download the latest bulletin from the Aberdeenshire Council website (17 June 2024)
Annual General Meeting & June meeting - we're holding our monthly meeting on Monday 17 June at 7:40pm, following our AGM at 7pm in Balmedie Leisure Centre. Read the agendas online (11 June 2024)
Asset transfer request for the Sand Bothy - Belhelvie Community Trust have made an asset transfer request for a 25 year lease of the Sand Bothy building in Balmedie Country Park. The Public Notice has now been published on Aberdeenshire Council’s website along with the application documentation. Information on how to make a representation is available on the Public Notice. Deadline for comment: Friday 14 June 2024 (21 May 2024)
Message from the Brethren Church Thank you to the Balmedie community. Following the tragic accident at our church hall on Wednesday the 15th May, we would like to thank the local Balmedie residents for all the respect, love and warm sympathy that has been expressed. It is deeply appreciated by the congregation. From The Plymouth Brethren Christian Church, Eigie Road Balmedie (21 May 2024)
Community Council statement - The village of Balmedie is devastated to hear the tragic news about the death of the young child. The Belhelvie Community Council would like to express our condolences to the family in particular and the wider Brethren community. We would encourage everyone to please respect the privacy of those involved at this very sad time. (16 May 2024)
May meeting - we're holding our monthly meeting on Monday 20 May at 7pm, in person at Balmedie Leisure Centre with online access. Please email belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com if you would like to join the meeting online. Read the agenda online (10 May 2024)
Community meeting - Wednesday 29 May 2024 - 7pm, Potterton Community Hall. This meeting has been called by the Belhelvie Community Council (BCC) in response to a request made at our most recent monthly meeting in April to allow all community residents the opportunity to convey their concerns (or support) to the BCC on the proposed housing development in Potterton by Barratt Homes and the associated detailed Planning Application lodged by Barratt Homes to the Aberdeenshire Council Planning Authority earlier in the year. As a consultee on all Planning Applications made within the Belhelvie Parish the BCC have, following our request, been granted an extension to the response deadline in order for us to hold this meeting. All residents of the Belhelvie community area (Belhelvie, Whitecairns, Potterton, Blackdog & Balmedie) are welcome. (4 May 2024)
Changes to bin collections - community events, organised by Aberdeenshire Council, about the changes to kerbside bin collections include one on 24 April at Balmedie Library, 4.30pm to 6pm. (17 April 2024)
Eigie House sheltered accommodation vacancies - Aberdeenshire Council currently have a number of vacancies within some of their self-contained one-bedroom flats in Eigie House, Balmedie, AB23 8ZQ. The current weekly charges for sheltered housing are: - Rent - £70.00 (approx. dependent on property and location) - Sheltered Housing upkeep of furniture/equipment - £7.66 - Sheltered Housing Heat and Light charge - £47.82 - Sheltered Housing Management Charge - £8.28 - Housing Support Charges – £21.68 If you are aware of anyone within our communities who may be interested in sheltered housing, please ask the to contact Aberdeenshire Council's Housing Options Team directly on 01467 533509. To view the latest vacancies, please visit: https://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/housing/housing-portal (11 April 2024)
April meeting - we're holding our monthly meeting on Monday 15 April at 7pm, in person at Balmedie Leisure Centre. Read the agenda online (11 April 2024)
Anti-social behaviour in Balmedie - following reports from residents of anti-social behaviour in Balmedie, the Community Council and our Aberdeenshire Councillors have been in touch with the local Police. We are expecting the Police to attend our April meeting and the Police have informed us the issue is being investigated by our local Community Beat Officer. The Police continue to advise residents to report incidents to them using the 101 phone number or the Police Scotland online contact form. Police advice: "Please remember if your enquiry is urgent or you wish to report an ongoing incident please telephone 101. Phone 999 if your matter requires an immediate or emergency response." Our April meeting will be held on Monday 15 April, 7pm at the Balmedie Leisure Centre with online access. (20 March 2024)
Road closure - Eigie Road, Balmedie between B977 roundabout and Chapelwell Place, will be closed from Monday 1 April 2024 for 5 days to safe access for road surface repair works by Aberdeenshire Council. Diversion via B977 Old Aberdeen Road (Balmedie), North Beach Road, Eigie Road, and vice versa. Access will be provided for emergency and vehicles requiring access to properties. Online map of the diversion. (17 March 2024)
March meeting - we're holding our monthly meeting on Monday 18 March at 7pm, in person at Balmedie Leisure Centre with online access. Please email belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com if you would like to join the meeting online. Read the agenda online (13 March 2024)
Public consultation Potterton development - Barratt & David Wilson Homes North Scotland have organised a public consultation event from 3-7pm on Wednesday 6th March 2024 at Potterton Community Centre, Laingseat Road.This event will form the final public consultation event at Potterton, and will set out the proposed design and layout for an application for planning permission for residential development along with open space, associated amenity areas and infrastructure at land north and north west of Denview Road, Potterton (LDP sites OP1 and OP2). The design and layout of the proposal builds upon the framework set out in the approved masterplan for the wider site. Public comments are requested by 14th March 2024, to enable feedback to be collated and actioned where appropriate. This can be either via feedback forms on the consultation website, at the event, or to the consultation email address (denviewroadpotterton@ema-architects.co.uk). For those unable to make it, the exhibition will also be available to view online at the consultation website www.denviewroadpotterton.co.uk at the time of the event. Information supplied by Barratt & David Wilson Homes North Scotland. (27 February 2024)
February meeting - we're holding our monthly meeting on Monday 19 February at 7pm, in person at Balmedie Leisure Centre. Barratts will be presenting on the Potterton development during the meeting. Read the agenda online (12 February 2024)
Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan 2028 - Aberdeenshire Council are in the process of preparing 33 topic papers which will be completed by the first quarter of 2024. You can view papers that are open for comments and have your say on the LDP consultation hub. (25 January 2024)
Nominations for the 2024 Inspiring Aberdeenshire Awards are now open. These awards are run by Aberdeenshire Council to celebrate people and groups in our communities who go above and beyond. Submit your nominations. Deadline for nominations: 29 February 2024. (24 January 2024)
Aberdeenshire Transport Strategy Public Survey - Aberdeenshire Council want to hear your views on transport in Aberdeenshire. Complete the survey using the online tool. Deadline for responses: 11 February 2024 (20 January 2024)
Our January 2024 meeting was cancelled due to weather conditions. Our next meeting will be on Monday 19 February 2024. (16 January 2024)
January meeting - we're holding our monthly meeting on Monday 15 January at 7pm, in person at Balmedie Leisure Centre. Barratts will be presenting on the Potterton development during the meeting. Read the agenda online (9 January 2024)
2023
December meeting - we're holding our monthly meeting on Monday 18 December at 7pm, in person at Balmedie Leisure Centre with online access. Please email belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com if you would like to join the meeting online. Read the agenda online now. (13 December 2023)
November meeting - we're holding our monthly meeting on Monday 20 November at 7pm, in person at Balmedie Leisure Centre with online access. Please email belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com if you would like to join the meeting online. Read the agenda online now. (14 November 2023)
Aberdeenshire Council currently have a number of vacancies within the sheltered housing at Eigie House, Balmedie, AB23 8ZQ. The current weekly charges for sheltered housing are: Rent - £70.00 (approx. dependent on property and location) Sheltered Housing upkeep of furniture/equipment - £7.37 Sheltered Housing Heat and Light charge - £46.02 Sheltered Housing Management Charge - £7.97 Housing Support Charges – £20.87 If you are interested you can contact the Housing Options Team directly on 01467 533509. "Sheltered housing allows older people or those with particular needs to live independently, with the right support, in a comfortable and secure environment. It also provides the opportunity for social contact and companionship, but equally respects an individual’s right to privacy." Source: Aberdeenshire Council To view the latest vacancies, please visit: https://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/housing/housing-portalStorm (14 November 2023)
Babet is due to cause disruption from 6am on Thursday (19 October) to 6pm on Friday (20 October) - advice from Aberdeenshire Council: "During an incident you may be homebound for an extended period, potentially without electricity. It is useful to make sure you have basic supplies in stock if you can. Plan supplies for as long as possible, up to 72 hours if you are able to." Supplies could include: - canned and dried food - bottled water - medicines - torches - radio and batteries - a portable gas cooker (please use it safely because there is a co2 risk if used incorrectly) - pet food - warm clothes- well-stocked first aid kit
Staying informed: Floodline Sign up to get notified when the area you live, work, or travel through is at risk of flooding. Website: www.floodlinescotland.org.uk The Priority Services Register is a free UK wide service which provides extra help to those that need it during power cuts or when there’s an interruption to your electricity, gas or water supply. Website: psrscotland.com Aberdeenshire Council’s mobile app (MyAberdeenshire) contains useful information relating to potential winter disruptions. Remember to switch on notifications. SSEN Power Track SSEN Distribution looks after the wires and cables that bring electricity to your home. Download SSEN’s free Power Track app for local power cut information and updates or visit: Website: ssen.co.uk/powertrack
October meeting - we're holding our monthly meeting on Monday 16 October at 7pm, in person at Balmedie Leisure Centre with online access. Please email belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com if you would like to join the meeting online. Find out more about what to expect in our meetings and read the meeting agenda. (9 October 2023)
The Community Council's first Special Recognition Award was presented to Mario Chiru, owner of the White Horse Pub and previously owner of the Balmedie Premier Shop - the award aims to recognise an individual within our settlements who has gone that extra mile to benefit the local community. Mario has been an unfailingly kind and generous member of the community since he arrived in Balmedie in 2014. During the height of Covid he arranged for home deliveries and frequently went out of his way to find items the big supermarkets were struggling to provide. His shop was vital in supporting our community, especially vulnerable members of the community, through the worst of the pandemic.
Mario also managed to reopen the White Horse pub which closed in 2019 and was sorely missed by the community. After battling through the buying process in 2020 and the work required to get the pub ready for re-opening, all during the height of the pandemic, he was able to re-open the pub in August 2022. This has re-established a local focal point and provided local jobs, and he has plans to expand his team in future.
His businesses support the local community and provide vital services, and he is always ready to help support our local volunteer groups. We asked Mario about what motivates him and how he feels about the community he has chosen to make his home.
"I have treated people like I wanted to be treated this is the main reason for my success. I always put myself in others shoes which made my life easy in understanding issues and serving the community in a better way. I have lived in different communities before but this is my community, this community cared about me, this community shared my pain, shared my joy, [and is] always there for me. In other words, this is not my community, this is my family." Mario Chiru, previous owner of the Balmedie Premier shop, and now the proprietor of the White Horse Hotel.
"Mario has such a pleasant and friendly disposition and has been a welcome addition to our community. He is helpful and considerate to all and very compassionate towards the older members of our community. He routinely delivered provisions direct to their door during the Covid lock-down period and continued that service towards the ones experiencing mobility or disability issues. He is universally well liked and we are delighted to announce him as the first recipient of our Community Recognition Award." David Wallace, Chairman, Belhelvie Community Council.
The Community Council are planning to make this award an annual event along with the introduction of one for a younger member of the community (under 18 years old). Nominations for these awards will be sought from the local community next year and will be awarded towards the end of 2024. (12 September 2023)
Consultation on changes to the wild-flower beds Scott Grove, Belhelvie - following a request to the Belhelvie Community Council (BCC) from a large contingent of residents from the Scott Grove area in Belhelvie for the removal of the original wild-flower beds andovergrown areas within the grasses amenity area at the entrance to the settlement from the North end. A proposal has been put forward that the area in question be reinstated as a maintained grass area for the enjoyment of the residents of Belhelvie. Should this proposal be adopted, the work would be carried out in conjunction with the BCC and thereafter maintained by the Aberdeenshire council. In order to progress this request, a wider consensus from the majority of the residents of the settlement of Belhelvie or others who may feel affected by this proposal. The consultation, due to the limited areas involved, shall be taken directly by the BCC and remain open until Sunday 10 September. A final decision on the future of this area shall be taken following the closure of this period and a formal notification shall be posted on the BCC Facebook page and here on the BCC website. Location: what3words.com/vegans.riverbed.roofed Please send your feedback to the BCC email: belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com Deadline for responses: Sunday 10 September 2023 (27 August 2023)
Revised bus services will start from Monday 21 August 2023. "Stagecoach Bluebird has confirmed the revised network of services which will operate across the North East from 21st August 2023. The announcement follows an in-depth review of customer travel patterns, as well as a consultation exercise with customers which has helped shape the final timetables." Source: Stagecoach press release. Changes include the Service X65 Aberdeen-Balmedie-Ellon (this replaces services 50 and 53). The new service provides connection between Aberdeen, Balmedie, Foveran and the centre of Ellon. Journeys on service 53A (Balmedie-Ellon Academy) will be retained on service X65. This new route replaces services 50 and 53. (5 August 2023)
July meeting - face to face and online - we are holding our next meeting on Monday 17 July, 7pm, at the Balmedie Leisure Centre and online. Please email us at belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com if you would like a link to the meeting. Read the meeting agenda online. (6 July 2023)
Consultation on proposed Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire bus timetable changes by Stagecoach Bluebird - feedback can be submitted via email to bluebird.consultations@stagecoach.com before Thursday 6 July. Stagecoach plans to introduce the new timetables in August 2023, once feedback from customers has been gathered. Services affected include: - X60/X63/61 Aberdeen-Ellon/Newburgh-Peterhead - Service X65 Aberdeen-Balmedie-Ellon (replaces services 50 and 53) All affected timetables in the Stagecoach announcement. (3 July 2023)
New benches being installed in Blackdog, Potterton, Balmedie and Belhelvie - with thanks to BCC members David Wallace (Chair), Ewan Phipps (Treasurer), Graham Middleton (Planning reporter), Gavin Drummond (Whitecairns) and Hilary Foxen (Potterton) for their work on this project to secure funding and site the benches, and Gavin's company team for the installation. Thanks too for the support from Alan Neave from the Blackdog Residents Association. The benches were funded by the Formartine coastal communities fund. Blackdog benches at Hareburn Terrace, Strabathie Cottages and on the road up to the dog-runs. Belhelvie bench near the B977 between Park Terrace and Cairn View. Location: https://what3words.com/loosens.domain.duet Balmedie benches opposite the White Horse and Balmedie Fish and Chip shop, and on Eigie Road. Location: https://what3words.com/craftsmen.plunger.shocks Potterton benches - two new benches near the B999 / park area. Locations: https://what3words.com/stick.move.cabbages https://what3words.com/leaflet.sponge.ripen (2 July 2023 - updated with Potterton locations)
June meeting and Annual General Meeting (AGM) - our next monthly meeting will be on Monday 19 June 2023, 7.35pm, (following the AGM at 7pm), online. Please note the June meetings will be online. Email belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com to request the meeting link. Read the upcoming meeting agendas. (1 June 2023)
Aberdeenshire Council consultation - traffic calming measures / build outs on Panmure Gardens, Potterton -Aberdeenshire Council proposes to introduce build outs on Panmure Gardens, Potterton under the Road Traffic Regulation Act, 1984 as follows. Details of the proposal, location plan and a statement of Aberdeenshire Council’s reasons for proposing to introduce the build outs, can be found at: https://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/roads/traffic-management/traffic-measures/Please submit any comments on the proposal to Aberdeenshire Council at roadsdevelopmentenquiries@aberdeenshire.gov.uk by Thursday 22 June 2023 (30 May 2023)
Community consultation - Belhelvie Community Trust are seeking your views on local facilities, groups & services. Send in your views online. (15 May 2023)
Community Council elections 2023 - we’re looking for new Community Councillors to represent the communities of Balmedie, Belhelvie, Potterton, Blackdog and Whitecairns. Find out more on our Community Council Election 2023 page. (7 May 2023)
COVID-19 Spring Boosters appointments - we can help with transport to Covid vaccination appointments. If you need help with transport please email belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com. Help is available from the Belhelvie Community Council for residents in our area - Blackdog, Balmedie, Potterton, Belhelvie and Whitecairns. (27 April 2023)
Community Speedwatch is looking for volunteers - the scheme aims to help tackle speeding and anti-social driving in our communities. It is recognised and supported by Police Scotland.
Register to join the Formartine group When registering please select the following options in the drop down menus: - Police Scotland - Aberdeenshire North - Speedwatch Formartine - enter your contact details
You will be asked to complete a short test when joining, if you have any questions or need help with registering, please contact Aberdeenshire Council's Formartine Area Office formartineareaoffice@aberdeenshire.gov.uk (13 April 2023)
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and the Met Office have launched the Scottish Flood Forecast, an early-warning system to alert communities to flooding risks in their area. The Scottish Flood Forecast provides the earliest indication possible of when and where flooding is expected over the next three days. Source: Community Councils (Scotland) https://www.communitycouncils.scot/news/2023/sepa-launches-scottish-flood-forecast (11 April 2023)
April meeting - face to face and online - we are holding our next meeting on Monday 17 April, 7pm, at the Balmedie Leisure Centre and online. Please email us at belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.comif you would like a link to the meeting. Read the meeting agenda online. (11 April 2023)
Aberdeenshire Council has announced the withdrawal of funding on some fixed route bus journeys from 12 June 2023, including the 64 - Blackdog to Aberdeen - Mon & Thurs - inter-peak service. More information in the Aberdeenshire Council announcement (29 March 2023)
March meeting - face to face and online - we are holding our next meeting on Monday 20 March, 7pm, at the Balmedie Leisure Centre and online. Please email us at belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com if you would like a link to the meeting. Read the meeting agenda online. (13 March 2023)
Ellon Park & Ride to Garthdee Transport Corridor Study Consultation - Aberdeen City Council is looking at options to improve walking, wheeling, cycling and public transport connections between Ellon Park & Ride, the City Centre and Garthdee as part of a Scottish Transport Appraisal Guidance (STAG)-based study using funding from Transport Scotland through the Bus Partnership Fund (BPF). Deadline for responses: 10 April 2023 Public events are taking place at: - Ruthrieston Community Centre – Thursday 23rd March 2023 (16:00-20:00) - King’s Church (Ellon Road) – Thursday 30th March 2023 (16:00-20:00) Full details of the consultation: https://consultation.aberdeencity.gov.uk/commissioning/ellonparkandridetogarthdeetransportcorridorstudy/ (13 March 2023)
February meeting - face to face and online - we are holding our next meeting on Monday 20 February, 7pm, at the Balmedie Leisure Centre and online.Please email us at belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com if you would like a link to the meeting. Read the meeting agenda online. (13 February 2023)
Blackdog speed restriction - the A92 South bound on slip lane at Blackdog, will be subject to a speed restriction of 40mph to the end of the slip road from Monday 20 February 2023 for 8 weeks to allow safe access for footpath and street lighting works to be carried out on behalf of Aberdeenshire Council. (13 February 2023)
Winter Warm Hub at The Wee Kirk (Balmedie) open on Mondays from 10am to 2pm. Everyone is welcome to come in for a tea or coffee, chat, meet friends and neighbours. Free Community larder with toiletries, non perishables food items is also available. The organising group hope that the Hub "...can provide a place for people to meet, play games, swap books, find someone to have a chat with… many of us have been stuck inside and unsure about coming out after Covid and now with the Cost of Living Crisis, it’s important we can lean on Community for support." Winter Warm Hub at The Wee Kirk Facebook page (19 January 2023)
January 2023 monthly meeting - we are holding our next meeting on Monday 16 January, 7pm, at the Balmedie Leisure Centre and online. Read the meeting agenda online. (10 January 2023)
2022
December 2022 monthly meeting - we are holding our next meeting on Monday 19 December, 7pm, at the Balmedie Leisure Centre. Read the meeting agenda online. (14 November 2022)
Blackdog Residents Association are holding a Blackdog Village Christmas Raffle this year in order to raise funds for events and projects in 2023. They are currently selling tickets for the raffle, with the Prize Draw taking place in Blackdog Community Park on Saturday 17th December. Prizes include - A Four-Ball Golf Outing at Trump International; An Apple 9th Generation I-Pad (64GB); a luxury M&S Hamper; an Air Fryer; a wide array of food/sports/beauty vouchers, drinks and many other wonderful prizes. We have more than 70 prizes to be won and tickets are just £1 each. Contact Alan Neave, Chairperson of the Blackdog Residents Association, for tickets at bigneavey@aol.com or 07930244331. (2 December 2022)
November monthly meeting - we are holding our next meeting on Monday 21 November, 7pm, online. Barratts will be presenting on the proposed Potterton development. Please email us at: belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com if you would like to join the meeting. Read the meeting agenda online. (14 November 2022)
New footpath in Blackdog - Aberdeenshire Council are proposing a footpath design that will connect Hareburn Terrace to the bus stop on the southbound slip road of the A92. They are proposing a new 2.0m wide footpath on the southbound verge of the A92 carriageway. This will connect the existing short footpath leading from Hareburn Terrace to the footpath that leads to the Industrial Estate, south of the existing bus stop. The footpath will be surfaced with a bituminous material, edged using precast concrete edging kerbs and lit by 10 new street lighting columns, equally spaced along its length. Please send your feedback to the BCC (belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com) by Monday 14 November so we can collate and send on to Aberdeenshire Council in time for their deadline. (6 November 2022)
Rezoning the Balmedie School catchment area - Aberdeenshire Council is proposing to rezone the Balmedie School catchment area to include the whole of the Blackdog settlement and align with the Aberdeenshire Council boundary. The consultation runs from 14 October 2022 until 6 January 2023. A public meeting will be held on Thursday 10 November 2022 in Balmedie School at 6.30pm. Send your feedback to Aberdeenshire Council using their online survey (17 October 2022)
Review of its fees and charges - Aberdeenshire Council's Environment and Infrastructure Services directorate is undertaking a review of its fees and charges. The results will be reported back to Council's Infrastructure Services Committee and amended charges introduced for the 2023/2024 financial year. Closing date for responses: Sunday 6 November 2022 Fees and charges consultation - Aberdeenshire Council website (10 October 2022)
Aberdeenshire Council is developing a new management plan for Balmedie Country Park, as part of the development process they would like to hear your thoughts about Balmedie Country Park, what you like at the moment and your ideas for the future. Send your feedback - Aberdeenshire Council Balmedie Country Park consultation (30 September 2022)
Extraordinary meeting - on Monday 3 October we will be meeting to discuss planning application APP/2022/1599 | Erection of 3 Dwellinghouses | The Old Nursery, Panmure Gardens, Potterton. (30 September 2022)
Local Development Plan 2022 - Aberdeenshire Council has formally adopted the modified Local Development Plan 2022, more information in the Aberdeenshire Council press release. (23 September 2022)
The next Formartine Area Bus Forum will be held at 7.30pm on Thursday 29 September, Meldrum Academy staff room. The forums are public meetings held in each area of Aberdeenshire. They are attended by the council’s Passenger Transport Unit, local councillors and local bus operators. Anyone can attend and it gives an opportunity to discuss any changes, issues or requests regarding local bus services (council supported or commercial). (23 September 2022)
Bus service changes on Monday 19 September, the Queen's funeral Service 291 (Aberdeen – Methlick), operated by Watermill Coaches on behalf of Aberdeenshire Council, will operate a Sunday timetable. Source: Aberdeenshire Council, Passenger Transport Unit. Stagecoach buses - Sunday services will be in operation on Monday 19 September across Aberdeenshire and Moray. Source Stagecoach website service update (15 September 2022)
September meeting - our monthly meeting will be held on Monday 26 September. We are moving the meeting by one week due to the Queen's funeral on Monday 19 September. (11 September 2022)
Barratts in-person masterplan consultation event -Thursday 8 September 2022, 3-8pm, at The Stead Inn, Potterton. The Belhelvie Community Council have been made aware that Barratts & David Wilson Homes North Scotland are running a public consultation about their proposed development in Potterton.
"The consultation event will include an exhibition to present updates to the proposal, as well as the opportunity to speak to the project team in person. The masterplan will set the framework for the design and layout of the subsequent planning application." (Source: Barratts)
Need help with your energy bills? Scarf are offering free drop in sessions next week (Tuesday 30 August) at their offices in Aberdeen (1 Cotton Street) for anyone worried about their energy bills.
Scarf are "...a charity/social enterprise delivering a range of services to householders, communities, and businesses throughout the North East. For over 35 years (they) have been offering free and impartial energy saving advice to help people lower their fuel bills and carbon emissions."
August meeting - our next meeting will be on Monday 15 August, 7pm, online via Microsoft Teams . The agenda is now available, Barratts will be presenting an update on the status of the Potterton housing development project during the meeting. Please email the BCC (belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com) to request a link to the meeting. (9 August 2022)
Help with school uniform costs from Aberdeenshire Council. On the Council's website find out: - if you are eligible - how to apply - how the grants are paid - buying school uniform - who to contact for help and advice (22 July 2022)
Belhelvie Community Council Election results - our election results were confirmed at our Annual General Meeting on 20 June 2022, and we welcome a new Community Councillor from Whitecairns, Gavin Drummond to the Belhelvie Community Council. We can still co-opt new members between elections to the Community Council so if you are interested in getting involved please get in touch. (23 June 2022)
BCC meetings on Monday 20 June 2020 - we are holding two meetings on Monday, our Annual General Meeting (AGM) will start at 7pm, followed by our June monthly meeting at 7.30pm via Microsoft Teams .The agendas are available on the website. Please email the BCC (belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com) to request a link to the meetings. (15 June 2022)
June meeting - our next meeting will be on Monday 20 June, 7.30pm, online via Microsoft Teams (following our AGM at 7pm). The agenda is now available. Please email the BCC (belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com) to request a link to the meeting. (31 May 2022)
Inspiring Aberdeenshire Awards Finalists - we are delighted to hear that Marion Bruce from the Potterton shop and Rosie Nicol from the Belhelvie Community Trust are two of three finalists for theInspiring Aberdeenshire Lifetime Achievement Award and wish them the best of luck at the awards ceremony in September. (25 May 2022)
Annual General Meeting 2022 - our next Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be on Monday 20 June, 7pm, online via Microsoft Teams . The agenda is now available. Please email the BCC (belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com) to request a link to the meeting. (23 May 2022)
Belhelvie Community Council Elections 2022 - nominations can now be submitted for our community council election. Opening date for nominations: Monday 9 May 2022 Closing date for submitting nominations: 5pm on Monday 30 May 202 Find out more about becoming a Community Councillor (9 May 2022)
May meeting - our next meeting will be on Monday 16 May, 7pm, online via Microsoft Teams . The agenda is now available. Please email the BCC (belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com) to request a link to the meeting. (9 May 2022)
April meeting - our next meeting will be on Monday 18 April, 7pm, online via Microsoft Teams . The agenda is now available. Please email the BCC (belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com) to request a link to the meeting. (13 April 2022)
Potterton shop closure - on behalf of the community the Belhelvie Community Council would like to thank Marion Bruce, her family and all her staff at the Potterton Shop for all their hard work and the support they have provided in Potterton over the last 60 years, especially during the pandemic and recent storms. We are delighted to be able to nominate Marion for the Inspiring Aberdeenshire Lifetime Achievement Award and wish her the best of luck in her retirement.
Barratts public consultation event: proposed Potterton development - Thursday 31 March 2022, 3-7pm the Belhelvie Community Council have been made aware that Barratts & David Wilson Homes North Scotland are running a public consultation workshop series (online and in-person) about their proposed development in Potterton. Proposed development at: Land North and North West of Denview Road, Potterton (proposed Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan allocation OP1 and OP2). Description of proposal: Residential development, along with open space, associated community uses and infrastructure. The first workshop will take place on Thursday 31 March 2022, 3-7pm using the website: www.denviewroadpotterton.co.uk The Barratts project team will be available to answer questions submitted via the website chat function during last 15 minutes of each hour (3.45pm, 4.45pm, 5.45pm and 6.45pm) during the event. To attend one of the sessions please email denviewroadpotterton@ema-architects.co.uk with your preferred session. The event will be held using Microsoft Teams. Deadline: comments via email or in writing by Thursday 14 April 2022 Contact: for more information, enquiries or to request paper copies of the material and feedback forms please contact EMA Architects phone: 0131 247 1450 address: 42 Charlotte Square Edinburgh EH2 4HQ email: denviewroadpotterton@ema-architects.co.uk (23 March 2022)
March meeting - our next meeting will be on Monday 21 March, 7pm, online via Microsoft Teams . The agenda is now available. Please email the BCC (belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com) to request a link to the meeting. (15 March 2022)
Local government elections this year In Aberdeenshire we go to the polls on 5 May 2022 to vote in all 70 Aberdeenshire councillors. Get registered to vote, update your details, check if you're already registered and find out how to register anonymously here: https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote You need to be registered to vote by 18 April 2022. More on the 2022 elections in Aberdeenshire, including postal votes here: https://aberdeenshire.gov.uk/council-and-democracy/elections/council-elections-2022/ (27 February 2022)
Scotland's census 2022 "In 2022, Scotland will run its once-a-decade count of the population. The census is the official count of every person in the country. It collects information about where you stay and the people who stay there. The information you give helps make decisions about how public money will be spent on schools, roads, healthcare and other important services in your local community." Source: Scotland's census website
February meeting -our next meeting will be on Monday 21 February, 7pm, online via Microsoft Teams . The agenda is now available. Please email the BCC (belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com) to request a link to the meeting. (20 February 2022)
First, second, or booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine available at the Forsyth Hall (Belhelvie Church, AB23 8YR) this week Tuesday 18 January, 10am to 6.30pm Wednesday 19 January, 10am-6.30pm Thursday 20 January, 10am-3pm You don't need an appointment. Check your vaccine eligibility at www.nhsinform.scot/covid-19-vaccine (18 January 2022)
January meeting - our next meeting will be on Monday 17 January, 7pm, online via Microsoft Teams . The agenda is now available. Please email the BCC (belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com) to request a link to the meeting. (12 January 2022)
Upcoming Police surgery at Potterton on Thursday 13 January 13.00 to 14.30 - car park opposite Potterton Gardens on Panmure Gardens (6 January 2022)
2021
Aberdeenshire Council Consultation - Public Engagement on the Local Development Plan. Deadline for responses 14 January 2022 Every year Aberdeenshire Council have to produce a "Development Plan Scheme" that sets out the programme they are following for the production of the Local Development Plan and the engagement and participation that they will be seeking during this process. However the Scottish Government has not yet finalised the process that they would like the Council to use for the production of the next generation of "new style" local development plans. The Aberdeenshire Council survey covers two topics:
- how they should cope with the lack of information that they currently have on the next plan, and also keeps you informed of the process of adoption of the Local Development Plan 2022 (LDP 2022) - the methods and productions that the Council used to engage with you on the formulation of the Proposed Local Development Plan published in 2020, and which constitutes the consultative draft of the LDP2022. This will help the Council to design processes for the development of the new local plan that recognise what has worked in the past and what has not
December meeting - our next meeting will be on Monday 20 December, 7pm, online via Microsoft Teams . The agenda is now available. Please email the BCC (belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com) to request a link to the meeting. (17 December 2021)
Storm Arwen support - continuing support from the Balmedie Leisure Centre Balmedie Leisure Centre have are still providing support to residents without power and/or water - come in and get warm, hot showers, hot food & drink are available. Leisure Centre opening times: Friday 3 December from 9 am until 4pm Saturday 4 December from 9am until 3pm Sunday 5 December from 9am until 3pm Please contact the Leisure Centre if you or a friend/neighbour cannot reach the Centre as staff may be able to help by delivering support. (3 December 2021)
Storm Arwen support - if a household is experiencing financial insecurity and they have lost e.g. fridge/freezer contents due tostorm Arwen, they may be able to get support from the Advice and Support Team. They should call the Storm Arwen helpline on 0808 1963 384 - Note from Aberdeenshire Council (1 December 2021)
Scottish Welfare Fund Crisis Grants - the fund is administered by councils in Scotland to provide financial support to people who are facing a crisis or need help to live in the community. It is normally a one-off grant for living expenses or household goods. Examples of the types of items you can get a crisis grant for include: - food - heating costs - toiletries - travel costs - costs for temporary accommodation More information and how to apply (1 December 2021)
Storm Arwen support -Balmedie Leisure Centre is open (Wednesday 1 & Thursday 2 December) for residents who need access to hot water, showers hot food, WiFi and to charge devices. - Hot food available until 7.30pm - Showers, and heat is available until 8.30 / 9pm (1 December 2021)
Storm Arwen support -if you are on a private water supply and have no water, please contact 0808 196 3384. This is an Aberdeenshire Council helpline and you will be passed to Environmental Health who will assist you. Update from Aberdeenshire Council. (1 December 2021)
Storm Arwen support - Potterton Community Centre is open today (29 November) until 10 pm for soup, hot drinks, get your devices charged and get warm. Open again tomorrow (30 November) (29 November 20212)
Aberdeenshire Schools closedMonday 2 9 November and Tuesday 30 November due to Storm Arwen (28 November 2021)
The landfill site at Easter Hatton (Balmedie) have applied for planning permission for an extension to the site APP/2021/2284 - Easter Hatton Landfill Site Balmedie - Extension to Landfill for Non-Hazardous Waste, Extension of Operating Life of Waste Management Facility, Associated Offices, Weighbridge, Wash-Bay and Vehicle Maintenance Buildings, Provision for Waste Re-cycling Facility, Civic Amenity Site, Landfill Leachate Treatment Facility, Diversion of Burn and Restoration of Site Planning application APP/2021/2284 (available on the Aberdeenshire Council website) - documents, deadlines and comments
October meeting our next meeting will be on Monday 18 October, 7pm, online via Microsoft Teams . Please email the BCC (belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com) to request a link to the meeting. (12 October 2021)
Community Covid testing schedule this week now available on the Aberdeenshire Council website - there will be a pop-up site this week at Balmedie Library (car park) on Thursday 14th October, 10am -12pm where you can COLLECT your test kits. Details of local community lateral flow testing and where to collect testing kits (for people without COVID symptoms) on a voluntary, no appointment, basis can be found on Aberdeenshire Council's website: https://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/covid-19/community-testing (11 October 2021)
Support is on hand for North East residents worried about the reports of rising gas prices and energy firms collapsing thanks to local fuel poverty charity, Scarf. Scarf’s team of specialist energy advisors provide free and impartial advice, information and support either by visiting you in your home or remotely by telephone / video call. The Scarf home energy advice team offer support on understanding heating controls and energy bills, tariff switching, Warm Home Discount applications and grants and schemes checks for improvements to the property. The service is open to owner occupiers, private tenants and local authority and council tenants. Get in touch on 0808 129 0888 or email Info@scarf.org.uk More information is available on their website - https://www.scarf.org.uk/ (3 October 2021)
September meeting our next meeting will be on Monday 20 September, 7pm, online via Microsoft Teams . Please email the BCC (belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com) to request a link to the meeting. (15 September 2021)
Meet our local Police team at the Police Community Surgery -09.30am to 11am on Thursday 23 September 2021, Balmedie Leisure Centre car park. If you miss them at the Leisure Centre, they will be at the Ellon Tesco car park 1pm to 2.30pm on the same day. Other Police Community Surgeries in September: Friday 10 September 2021 Rothienorman village hall car park 0930 - 1100 hours Oldmedrum Co-op car park 1300 - 1430 hours Wednesday 22 September 2021 Turriff Tesco car park 0930 - 1100 hours Fyvie car park opposite Co-op 1300 - 1430 hours (15 September 2021)
Help with local issues - we have put together information on where to find help locally with local issues such as bin collections, roads, planning, environmental health and the Police https://belhelviecc.org.uk/help-with-local-issues.html (10 September 2021)
Belhelvie Community Trust is proposing a community improvement project at Potterton to alleviate flooding. The Trust needs comments from the community about the proposed works. Comments can be added to the original BCT Facebook post or by emailing the Trust at info@belhelviecommunitytrust.org.uk, please send the Trust your comments by Friday 20 August. (27 July 2021)
If you need to report an environmental incident, defined by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) as "An environmental event is an incident which has, or may have, an environmental impact." you can do this using theSEPA website reporting toolor by calling the SEPA pollution hotline on 0800 80 70 60. Please remember that SEPA guidance is to notify emergency services when there is an immediate threat to life, health and/or property. (25 July 2021)
Election of Office Bearers at the 2021 Annual Genera Meeting, the following people were elected on 19 July as office bearers. David Wallace – Chair, Alex McIntyre – Vice Chair, John Fletcher – Secretary, Ewan Phipps – Treasurer, Graham Middleton - Planning Reporter, Carolyne Wood - Communications Co-ordinator. (20 July 2021)
The Community Council election process was postponed in 2020 due to coronavirus restrictions.
Elections are now taking place, the closing date for Belhelvie nominations is: 1 June 2021. For more information on the current Community Council elections, nominations (including nomination forms to download), ballots and result dates see the Aberdeenshire Council website - Community Council elections page. (18 May 2021)
May meeting our next meeting will be on Monday 17 May, 7pm, online via Microsoft Teams . Please email the BCC (belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com) to request a link to the meeting.
(10 May 2021)
Update on easing of restrictions from the Scottish Government
"From Monday 26 April, hospitality venues such as cafés, pubs and restaurants can reopen, along with tourist accommodation. Non-essential retail outlets and close contact services such as beauty salons can also reopen, in addition to indoor attractions and public buildings such as galleries, museums and libraries. The First Minister confirmed thatall parts of the country will move to Level 3 from Monday 26 April. The remaining travel restrictions within Scotland will be lifted and travel within the UK will be permitted for any purpose. If everyone continues to follow the rules, the First Minister said it is expected that all of Scotland will move to Level 2 on Monday 17 May." Read the full Scottish Government news article (20 April 2021)
Restrictions easing from Friday 16 April - Travel within Scotland for outdoor socialising, recreation and exercise will be allowed from Friday 16 April. - People must continue to Stay Local for other purposes such as non-essential shopping, and public transport capacity will continue to be limited. - Outdoor meetings in groups of up to six adults from up to six households will also be allowed from Friday, with under-12s not counting towards this limit. Socialising in homes is still not permitted. More information from: Scottish Government website's news release Details of the current covid protection levels (16 April 2021)
April meeting our next meeting will be on Monday 19 April, 7pm, online via Microsoft Teams . Please email the BCC (belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.com) to request a link to the meeting.
(16 April 2021)
Help getting to vaccination centres if you are unable to make your own way to appointments, we can co-ordinate and pay for taxis to help you attend your appointment. This is initially restricted to those residing within the settlements of Belhelvie Parish (Balmedie, Belhelvie, Potterton, Whitecairns, Blackdog) and within the current priority vaccination group. We will need your name, pickup address, destination address and appointment time. Please message the Belhelvie Community Council Facebook page to arrange an appointment.
(20 March 2021)
The mass Vaccination programme for the top priority groups is underway with these people being directed to mass vaccination centres across Aberdeenshire.
For those people who are unable to make their own way to appointments Belhelvie Community Council can co-ordinate and pay for taxis to help them attend their appointment.Please note this is initially restricted to those residing within the settlements of Belhelvie Parish (Balmedie, Belhelvie, Potterton, Whitecairns, Blackdog) and within a priority vaccination group. We will require a name, pickup address, destination address and appointment time. Please message the Belhelvie Community Council Facebook page to arrange an appointment. (2 February 2021)
Potterton residents: There is currently money available through the Developers Obligations fund to be used on community halls in Potterton by May 2021.There is £4132.80 to spend, so this would be allocated for a small project which is constrained by the rules around Developers Obligations. It must be something new and linked to the Community Centre, for example an option for new storage/new community space on the site. Projects such as maintenance, ongoing running costs, wages and rent will not be supported. Do you have any suggestions or thoughts on what this could be used for? Please get in touch with us at belhelviecommunitycouncil@hotmail.comwith your views. Whilst local groups were hoping to progress with their aspirations for community facilities, it has been very difficult to move forward during the restrictions of the pandemic. Due to the very limited time available, can any viable suggestions please be submitted by 7 February 2021 (24 January 2021)
Local foodbanks Aberdeenshire North Foodbank have a center in Ellon that Belhevie, Balmedie, Blackdog, Whitecairns and Potterton residents can use.
Everyone who comes to the foodbank for emergency food needs to have a valid foodbank voucher. You can find how who can help you with vouchers on the foodbank website. Aberdeenshire North Foodbank - how to get help (14 January 2021)
Coronavirus help and support we aim to keep our coronavirus statement up to date with the latest on protection levels and restrictions, foodbanks, and help and support available locally. Read the latest coronavirus statement and help page (14 January 2021)
Lockdown restrictions will be strengthened from this weekend "To minimise the risk of spreading the virus, you must stay at home as much as possible. By law, in a Level 4 area, you can only leave your home (or garden) for an essential purpose." Source: Scottish Government
. Read the UPDATED Stay at Home Guidance (13 January 2021)
Scottish Government announced further restrictions from 5 January 2021. "New laws will require people to stay at home and work from home where possible. Outdoor gatherings are also to be cut back, with people only allowed to meet one person from one other household. Places of worship are to be closed, group exercise banned, and schools will largely operate via online and remote learning. These rules will apply across the Scottish mainland until at least the end of January, and will be kept under review." Source - BBC news . Scottish Government - Stay at home Guidance (4 January 2021)
2020
December meeting our next meeting will be on Monday 21 December, 7pm, online via Microsoft Teams . The developers of the proposed Rainnieshill Quarry will be presenting. Please email the BCC to request a link to the meeting.
(16 December 2020)
Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire are moving to protection level 3 from 6pm on Friday 18 December 2020. The changes to protection levels will be reviewed on Tuesday 22 December.
More information: Scottish Government announcement (15 December 2020)
Updates to COVID-19 protection levels and travel Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire are currently in protection level 2 . "From 6pm on Friday 20 November travel restrictions will be put into law to prevent people who live in a Level 3 or Level 4 local authority area from travelling outside their local authority except for an essential purpose - such as work or caring responsibilities... the regulations also affect non-essential travel into a Level 3 or 4 local authority area, except for the same reasons." The changes to protection levels come into effect at 6pm on Friday 20 November and will remain in place for three weeks until Friday 11 December. Source: The Scottish Government website (19 November 2020)
November meeting our next meeting will be on Monday 16 November, 7pm, online via Microsoft Teams . Please email the BCC to request a link to the meeting. (13 November 2020)
Postcode checker for COVID restrictions by protection level in areas of Scotland available from the Scottish Government website (13 November 2020)
Explanation of the 5 protection levels for Scotland coming into force on 2 November 2020 "Further details on which local authority areas of Scotland will fall under which levels will be announced following discussions with directors of public health and local authorities, taking on board recommendations from the national incident management team, before coming into force on 2 November." Source Scottish Government website. Scottish Government news announcement Download Scotland’s Strategic Framework (PDF) (25 October 2020)
October meeting and Annual General meeting our next monthly meeting will be held on Monday 19 October 2020 at 7.45pm following our Annual General Meeting at 7pm. Please email the BCC to request a link to the meeting (12 October 2020)
The Scottish Government have published (14 September 2020) updated guidance on the latest rules on staying safe and protecting others from Coronavirus. This includes guidance on how to stay safe, face coverings, meeting other people, shopping, eating out, sports, getting around, gatherings, working, running a business and penalties. (14 September 2020)
Lockdown in Aberdeen extended 'After being reviewed on 19 August, it has been decided that local restrictions will continue in Aberdeen, with a further review on Sunday 23 August.' More information from the Scottish Government website (19 August 2020)
Latest on lock down -the Scottish Government route map document was updated on 30 July 2020. It includes updates on lock down measures that are easing on 1 August (shielding), 3 August (support groups & services, sports coaches, eyecare), 11 August (return to school) and 17 August (dental care). The next review is planned for 20 August. There is also information on what is planned after the next review and activities that are likely to start from 24 August onwards. Read the full document (1 August 2020)
What's next for lock down? The Scottish Government route map document updated on 9 July 2020 sets out the steps for easing lock down in Phase 3. There's an update on the measures starting on 10, 13, 15 and 22 July.
Download the document from the Scottish Goverment website (9 July)
Aberdeenshire Council's Local Development Plan consultation has been extended responses can now be submitted until Friday 31 July 2020.
Read more on the Aberdeenshire Council website (25 June 2020)
The Scottish Government route map document (updated on 18 June 2020) sets out the steps for easing lock down. There's an update on the Phase 2 measures starting on 19, 22 and 29 June. Page 5 of the document onwards has an easy to scan overview of each phase (epidemic state, R number etc and advice on protection) and the plans in each phase: how we can see family and friends, getting around, schools and education, working, shopping and eating out, sport and culture, public services, gatherings, and health and social care. Read the document (Scottish Government website) (23 June 2020)
Damage to property if you see vandalised property in the villages or down at the beach please can you call 101 so the Police have a record in their systems and can follow it up. More information on the Police website. (18 June 2020)
Aberdeenshire Council have launched a virtual ‘drop-in’ portal for the Local Development Plan consultation. The portal has links to settlement posters, short films, live chat and the Proposed Plan. The deadline to respond to the consultation is Friday 17 July 2020. Find out more on their website (8 June 2020)
Garden waste drop off point at Balmedie Leisure Center car park.
Aberdeenshire Council are restarting their garden waste service from Saturday (6 June). Bring your garden waste in bags to the Balmedie Leisure Center car park between 1pm and 4pm. You can empty your bags into the truck and then take your bags home to recycle. Please note "There is no need to book, however traffic management and physical-distancing measures will apply at all sites and visitors are being advised to stay in their vehicle until called forward. Staff will be unable to assist with any unloading or lifting." This service is currently planned to be available from 6 June to 31 October 2020. See details in the Council's Facebook post (2 June 2020)
Test and Protect in Grampian - information on who should get tested, when and where you can be tested, getting results, what to do if you test positive. Grampian's local tracing team. Find out how to minimise your risk, tips such as keeping a log of who you meet and how the service protects your privacy. How to isolate if you need to do this, and who can help and support you.
Watch the video (YouTube) (1 June 2020)
Public consultation on the proposed Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan 2020 is open for responses until 17 July 2020 (5pm). The Plan sets out the policies to be used in the planning application process and it proposes land allocations for development between 2021 and 2031. More information is available in theAberdeenshire Council Facebook page and website.
(25 May 2020)
Road closure from 11 May 2020 for 5 days (09:00 - 18:00) at the Rocks of Balmedie between the Belhelvie Bowling Club and McKay Road (Belhelvie). This is to allow safe working on the carriageway to be carried out on behalf of BT Openreach. Diversion will be via B977 and B999. If you have any questions please contact Alex Bateman on 03700 500792 or email
urtm@aplant.com (10 May 2020)
Attending our local hospitals NHS Grampian now have dedicated routes through our hospitals for patients and staff. Please follow the routes shown when using the hospitals. Read more in the NHS Grampian Facebook page (18 April 2020)
Online directory of local community organisations and businesses offering support at this time, managed by the Formartine Rural Partnership. If you want your organisation to be added visit the site where you can send the Partnership your details. See the list on the Formartine Rural Partnership website (17 April 2020)
April meeting our next meeting will be on Monday 20 April, 7pm, online via Skype
. Please email the BCC to request an invitation to the Skype meeting. (14 April 2020)
National helpline established for those who do not have family or community support. The helpline will provide essential assistance to those who don’t have a network of support but who are at high risk of contracting COVID-19.Find out more about the helpline from the Scottish Government. (14 April 2020)
Video consultations are now available at the Scotstown Medical Group and Ellon Medical Group. Please see each practice website for more details on how this service works. Scotstown Medical Group Services webpage Ellon Medical Group website- scroll down the page to 'NHS Near Me Video Appointments' section (10 April 2020)
Road closure from 13 April 2020 for 2 days between
at the Rocks of Balmedie between the Belhelvie Bowling Club and McKay Road (Belhelvie). Diversion will be via B977 and B999. View the map of the closure and diversion (Google maps) (1 April 2020)
Access to Country Parks Aberdeenshire Council have released a statement on access to our Country Parks, to summarise: - Aberdeenshire’s Country Parks are essentially “out of bounds” to anyone who does not live within short walking distance - you should not travel to access the outdoors - your time spent outside exercising should be done close to your home - across our local communities, playground equipment is closed - if you live close to a play park, the open space is still open to you, but please do not allow young ones to play on the equipment, please also observe social distancing as guided by government - all public toilets are closed Read the full Aberdeenshire Council statement on Facebook (1 April 2020)
Ellon Medical Group announcement about access to the surgery "...to practice good social distancing and protect our most vulnerable members of society and staff, we have been granted permission to temporarily close our surgery doors to visitors to restrict access to patients requiring urgent/acute care only."
More information on the Ellon Medical Group website (1 April 2020)
Help and advice website launched for Grampian information includes:
-How to make a request for assistance and how to register to offer one - Information about schools and nurseries - How coronavirus is spread and how to avoid catching or spreading germs - Guidance and support available for businesses - Financial support and assistance - View latest news from UK and Scottish governments - Links to Aberdeenshire Council, Aberdeen Council, British Red Cross, HM Coastguard, Moray Council, NHS Grampian, Police Scotland, SCottish Fire and Rescue Service and SSE Visit the Grampian Coronavirus (COVID-19) Assistance Hub website (30 March 2020)
The Potterton Shop is offering deliveries to Potterton, Whitecairns and Belhelvie. If you are vulnerable and need help with getting groceries or know someone vulnerable who would benefit please let them know. Call in orders on 01358-742-670 (pay by card over the phone), volunteers are delivering and will keep a safe distance when dropping off bags. (28 March 2020)
Database of local volunteers being built Paul McKeown (Church of Scotland minister for the parish of Belhelvie) is pulling together a database to match volunteers to people in need in our communities at this time.
If you're able to help in some way can you please message Paul with the following: your name, village or area you live in, contact phone number and what kind of help you're able to offer.Paul is looking for help especially in Potterton, Belhelvie, Whitecairns and Blackdog, there's a lot of help already registering in Balmedie but please still say if you can help in Balmedie too. Paul is doing this in consultation with Dr Forbes at Scotstown Practice and their Link Worker. (28 March 2020)
Aberdeenshire Voluntary Action is creating a directory of community and third sector responses to the Covid-19 outbreak. To help AVA advertise the services that your group or organisation are able to offer they are asking organisations to complete their short survey, more information in their survey page.
(26 March 2020)
Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership announce that they will no longer allow any visitors to their Care Homes, Very Sheltered Housing complexes or Supported Living Accommodation. More information in the post from AHSCP. (25 March 2020)
How to report vandalism to the Police there are reports in local Facebook groups of vandalism in the villages. Please report these incidents to the Police by calling 101. Our Community Based Officer PC Doug Donald has recommended that we report issues using this service.
Read more about the 101 number and when it should be used. (22 March 2020)
Education update Aberdeenshire Council have a web page detailing the schools that will be open on Monday 23 March (for specific groups of pupils only, details of these groups can also be found on the page). Read more on the Aberdeenshire Council website.
(21 March 2020)
Facilities run by Live Life Aberdeenshire will be suspended from 6pm today (Thursday 19 March). Please note - the Balmedie Leisure Centre is run independently and will release it's own plans in the next day or so. Read the Live Life Aberdeenshire Facebook post. (19 March 2020)
Local day centers for adults will be closing by the end of Friday 20 March due to the current crisis (19 March 2020)
Coronavirus statement & sources of information our statement explains how we will continue to work during the crisis and lists local groups coming together to help vunerable members of our communities, and Aberdeeenshire Council's recommended sources of information to help you stay informed.Read the Belhelvie Community Council statement (19 March 2020)
Monthly meetings will move online due to the current global health crisis the BCC will be trialing the use of online meetings and working together by email and phone to continue the work of the Belhelvie Community Council. (17 March 2020)
Dickies pharmacy are changing how they work and prescriptions will take longer to fulfill during this period. More information in the BCC Facebook post. (17 March 2020)
Local doctors change appointment procedures the Scotstown and Ellon medical practices are changing how they handle appointments durng the current Coronavirus situation. The latest information can be found on their websites: Scotstown medical group website Ellon medical group website (16 March 2020)
Young people's vote on activities and facilities in our area! We want to hear from the younger members of our community, tell us which ideas you want to see the Community take forward and how you would use them. We are running the survey jointly with the Belhelvie Community Trust. Find out more and vote. (February 2020)
Proposed new bus timetables Stagecoach are planning changes to the bus timetables (including stopping again on King Street) in April 2020 and they want to hear from you. Deadline to send your feedback: Sunday 16 February 2020
. From the Stagecoach announcement - King street route stopping at Morrisons - Service 50 / 50B between Ellon and Newburgh is revised with most journeys now extending through to Aberdeen via Balmedie (Eigie Road) and Blackdog slip roads. The route has been revised to operate directly along King Street, serving Morrison’s and Frederick Street Health Centre, following customer feedback. Service 747 is being reduced, Service 291 is to have new start times. Read about the proposed changes on the Stagecoach website. Email your feedback to: bluebird.enquiries@stagecoachbus.com (February 2020)
Have your say - facilities and activities for young people
survey We're looking for your ideas on what activities could be provided for younger people in the local area. We’re asking everyone to take part and send us your ideas. Send us your ideas between Monday 13 January and Friday 31 January 2020. (January 2020)
January meeting come and join us at Balmedie Leisure Centre on Monday 20 January at 7pm. The latest BCC meeting agenda is now available.
(January 2020)
December meeting come and join us at Balmedie Leisure Centre on Monday December 16 at 7pm. The latest BCC meeting agenda is now available. (December 2019)
New Blackdog bus services starting in January - Aberdeenshire Council are trialing two new services in the new year. Shopper service - two return journeys - Blackdog to Aberdeen City Centre and Connecting service - three peak hour journeys - connecting Blackdog to the stops on the A90. Aberdeenshire Council are doing a leaflet drop to everyone in Blackdog this month with details of the services. The trial will be reviewed in March 2020. (December 2019)
November meeting come and join us at Balmedie Leisure Centre on Monday 18 November at 7pm. The latest BCC meeting agenda is now available.
(November 2019)
Public consultation meeting - Wednesday 6 November 2019 Kirkwood homes are holding a public consultation about their proposed Blackdog development on Wednesday 6 November 2019, 3pm - 8pm at Forsyth Hall, Belhelvie. Kirkwood are proposing a revised application (ENQ/2019/1516) which updates from the previously consented scheme (APP/2016/0767) (November 2019)
October meeting come and join us at Balmedie Leisure Centre on Monday 21 October at 7pm. The latest BCC meeting agenda is now available.
(October 2019)
Balmedie North proposed development update - Aberdeenshire Council planners and the Formartine Area Committee have recommended that the proposed Balmedie North development does NOT go ahead and that it is NOT accepted into the Aberdeenshire Council Local Development Plan. The Formartine Area Committee will put forward it's recommendation NOT to recommend the development to the Infrastructure Services Committee (ISC) in Aberdeenshire Council. The ISC will make it's recommendation on the proposal in October (ISC meeting on 3 October 2019). In November Aberdeenshire Council will meet and discuss the proposed development including the recommendations by the Council's Committees (Aberdeenshire Council meeting on 21 November 2019).
If the developers choose to appeal they can do this in a public inquiry which will be held in Spring 2020.
The following information is taken from the Aberdeenshire Council website: 'How the applicant appeals depends on who made the decision. If the application was decided by Aberdeenshire Council's planning officer, the applicant can ask for the decision to be reviewed by the Local Review Body, which is a group of councillors. If the decision was made by councillors, the applicant can appeal to Scottish Ministers.'See Aberdeenshire Council's website.
We will let you know about each decision being made and if the development will go to a public inquiry where the you will be able to comment. More information on the appeals process is available on the Scottish Government website (September 2019)
Menie Estate planning application (APP/2018/1814) - Aberdeenshire Council will be discussing the application at the Council meeting on Thursday (26 September) 10.15am, Council Chamber, Woodhill House, Westburn Rd, Aberdeen AB16 5GB. The application includes 550 dwelling houses, the applicant has requested to speak at the meeting. The meeting papers are available from the Council website.
(September 2019)
September meeting come and join us at Balmedie Leisure Centre on Monday 16 September at 7pm. The latest BCC meeting agenda is now available. (September 2019)
August meeting come and join us at Balmedie Leisure Centre on Monday 19 August at 7pm. There will be a presentation from NORR about the Balmedie North development. The latest BCC meeting agenda is now available.
(August 2019)
July meeting come and join us at Balmedie Leisure Centre on Monday 15 July at 7pm We will be discussing the proposed bus timetables and what we are doing with your transport survey feedback. The latest BCC meeting agenda is available.
(July 2019)
Interested in volunteering at Balmedie Country Park? Aberdeenshire Council are holding public meeting about the Country Park on Wednesday 3 July 2019, 6.30pm at Balmedie Leisure Centre. (June 2019)
June meeting and Annual General Meeting (AGM) we are holding our annual general meeting on Monday 17 June at 7pm in the White Horse. The meeting agenda is available. (June 2019)
May meeting come and join us at the White Horse on Monday 20 May at 7.15pm We will be discussing the upcoming Community Council elections. The latest BCC meeting agenda is available.
(May 2019)
Community Council elections are you interested in representing your community? Community Council elections are coming up, nominations need to be received by Monday 27 May 2019. Find out more about the elections. (May 2019)
Transport survey we want to find out how you rate the current transport service, what you want from the services, any complaints you have filed with Stagecoach and how you would use a community bus service if it was available. We will be taking your responses to the next meeting with Stagecoach and Aberdeenshire Council at the Area Bus Forums. Find out more about the transport survey and take part. (May 2019)
Potterton road closure 8-10 May 2019 for high stress dressing Kirkhill Gardens in Potterton will be closed so that Aberdeenshire Council can work on the road for three days in May. Access will be provided for emergency vehicles and vehicles requiring access to properties, but there may be delays until the road is cleared of construction plant to allow safe passage through the works. If you have any questions please contact Stuart Copland on 01467 532867 or Paul Wilson on 01467 538961. Map of the affected area available on our Facebook page. (April 2019)
April meeting come and join us at the White Horse on Monday 15 April at 7pm. We will be discussing the new format Police report The latest BCC meeting agenda is available.
(April 2019)
Public viewing of the plans for Balmedie South development View and comment on the detail plans for the residential development at Eigie Farm, South Balmedie. Monday 25 February, 4.00pm - 7.30pm White Horse, Balmedie. For more information and map of the development area download the event PDF. (February 2019)
February meeting come and join us at the White Horse on Monday 18 February at 7pm. NORR planning consultants and Castlehill Housing Association will making a presentation about the Eigie Farm housing development (Balmedie South). Meeting agenda available. (February 2019)
Public meeting about the Council's Local Development Plan (LDP) 2021 Come and talk to the planning officers to help them with the preparation of submissions to the Main Issues Report and other documents on Friday 15 February 12:30pm - 7pm Balmedie Leisure Centre. For more information see the Aberdeenshire Council website. (February 2019)
Public consultation on plans for 500 new homes and primary school in West Balmedie A public consultation is to be held into the plans on Thursday 31 January, 4-8pm at the White Horse, Balmedie (January 2019)
Join the Community Council if you are interested in local matters we are looking new community councillors. Please contact us to let us know if you are interested. (January 2019)
January meeting come and join us at the White Horse on Monday 21 January at 7.15pm. Vattenfall will be presenting. (January 2019).
2018
December meeting come and join us at the White Horse on Monday 17 December at 7.30pm.
(December 2018)
November meeting come and join us at the White Horse on Monday 19 November at 7.30pm. (November 2018)
Light powered speed warning signs in Balmedie, Whitecairns and Potterton will not be installed due to lack of support from Aberdeenshire Council's Roads Department (November 2018)
Bus timetables Stagecoach have publlshed their new timetables, these start on Monday 19 November 2018, more information on the Stagecoach website (October 2018)
New health centre in Balmedie NHS Scotland have stated that they do not intend to go ahead with this development (October 2018)
Local Development Plan (LDP) 2021 debate the main issues from the plan were debated at Formartine Area Committee on 30 October 2018. See our Facebook post (October 2018)
