What you told us - What we're doing

Thank you for taking part and sharing your thoughts!

On this page, you’ll find details about our past community engagement, how we have used your feedback, and what we’re planning next.

Asset Transfer Request - Leslie Hall, Insch

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What you told us
Insch Leslie & District Men’s Shed submitted an Asset Transfer request to convert the former school building into a dedicated base for their activities. The group had been operating from the facility on a limited basis and identified the need for a larger, more suitable space to expand the range of projects they could undertake and better serve the local community. The proposed use of the building is primarily to support Men’s Shed activities, with potential to provide space for other community uses.
The request was published on the Council’s website and promoted through Engage Aberdeenshire, with the public given at least 20 working days to submit representations. The Community Council was notified, and notices were displayed locally. Representations were received, with no objections raised. The Men’s Shed also undertook its own community engagement and engaged with neighbouring properties, with feedback incorporated into their Business Plan
All documentation relating to the Asset Transfer request, including public comments, is available on the Council’s website.
What we’re doing
The Asset Transfer request was considered by the Garioch Area Committee on 12 May 2026, where members approved the officer recommendation to transfer the property into full ownership at a discounted price of £1.
The transfer is currently progressing through the conveyancing process and will be completed once this is finalised.
What you told us
Insch Leslie & District Men’s Shed submitted an Asset Transfer request to convert the former school building into a dedicated base for their activities. The group had been operating from the facility on a limited basis and identified the need for a larger, more suitable space to expand the range of projects they could undertake and better serve the local community. The proposed use of the building is primarily to support Men’s Shed activities, with potential to provide space for other community uses.
The request was published on the Council’s website and promoted through Engage Aberdeenshire, with the public given at least 20 working days to submit representations. The Community Council was notified, and notices were displayed locally. Representations were received, with no objections raised. The Men’s Shed also undertook its own community engagement and engaged with neighbouring properties, with feedback incorporated into their Business Plan
All documentation relating to the Asset Transfer request, including public comments, is available on the Council’s website.
What we’re doing
The Asset Transfer request was considered by the Garioch Area Committee on 12 May 2026, where members approved the officer recommendation to transfer the property into full ownership at a discounted price of £1.
The transfer is currently progressing through the conveyancing process and will be completed once this is finalised.
Area of Common Good Land at Lower Deveronside Banff

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What you told us
We asked for your views on a proposal to dispose of an area of Common Good land at Lower Deveronside in Banff. We received a range of views, both for and against the proposal. All of the comments are publicly available and can be found here: Public Consultation Feedback
Key themes included:
Some strong views that Common Good land should be protected and not sold
Opinions raised that the land belongs to the community rather than the Council
Worries about the loss of a long-term community asset and future opportunities for development of the site
Preference for community, recreational or green space use, including facilities for young people
Interest in alternative options, such as leasing rather than selling
Concerns about transparency, clarity and fairness in the process
Recognition that the land has been unused or in poor condition for some time
Support for bringing the site back into productive use
Perceived benefits for economic growth, local businesses and jobs
A desire to improve the appearance and vitality of Banff
Confidence from some respondents in the proposed purchaser and delivery of development
A general feeling that positive change is needed rather than leaving the land unused
We would like to thank everyone who took the time to complete the survey. Your feedback has been carefully considered and helps inform the next steps.
We heard clear concerns about the sale of Common Good land, including how it is protected and used for future generations, as well as the importance of community benefit, transparency and exploring alternative options. At the same time, we recognise that some respondents want to see the site brought back into use, with potential benefits for the local economy, improved facilities and the overall appearance of Banff.
The consultation was carried out in line with the statutory requirements for the disposal of Common Good land. This included a publicly advertised process, with information made available online and in paper format, and opportunities for people to submit their views. A question and answer document was also provided, setting out key information such as the location of the land, the reason for the proposed sale and the process being followed. The Council has a legal responsibility as custodian of Common Good assets and must follow a defined statutory process when considering any disposal. This includes public consultation, reporting findings to Committee, and seeking approval through the appropriate legal routes.
We also want to be clear about how Common Good assets are managed. Any proceeds from the sale would remain within the Common Good Fund, split equally between Banff and Macduff. This means the value is not lost and can be reinvested in projects and priorities that benefit the local community over the longer term.
We note the suggestions for community or recreational use, as well as alternatives such as leasing. These options were considered, however disposal of the land was preferred as it allows the value of the asset to be realised and reinvested, providing wider opportunities and benefits for the community.
While detailed and strongly held views were received, the overall number of responses was relatively low. This means the findings should be considered alongside wider evidence when making decisions. All feedback forms part of the Council’s decision-making process, alongside its responsibilities as custodian of Common Good assets, the potential benefits of the proposal, and the long-term interests of the community.
What we’re doing
A report was presented to the Banff and Buchan Committee on 16 June. The report can be found here, at item 14: Agenda for Banff and Buchan Area Committee on Tuesday, 16th June, 2026, 9.30 am - Aberdeenshire Council
The Committee agreed to:
Instruct the Head of Legal and People to conclude missives for the sale of the site to the previously identified preferred bidder
Instruct the Head of Legal and People to seek approval from the Sheriff Court under section 75 of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 to dispose of the Common Good element of the asset before progressing the sale
What you told us
We asked for your views on a proposal to dispose of an area of Common Good land at Lower Deveronside in Banff. We received a range of views, both for and against the proposal. All of the comments are publicly available and can be found here: Public Consultation Feedback
Key themes included:
Some strong views that Common Good land should be protected and not sold
Opinions raised that the land belongs to the community rather than the Council
Worries about the loss of a long-term community asset and future opportunities for development of the site
Preference for community, recreational or green space use, including facilities for young people
Interest in alternative options, such as leasing rather than selling
Concerns about transparency, clarity and fairness in the process
Recognition that the land has been unused or in poor condition for some time
Support for bringing the site back into productive use
Perceived benefits for economic growth, local businesses and jobs
A desire to improve the appearance and vitality of Banff
Confidence from some respondents in the proposed purchaser and delivery of development
A general feeling that positive change is needed rather than leaving the land unused
We would like to thank everyone who took the time to complete the survey. Your feedback has been carefully considered and helps inform the next steps.
We heard clear concerns about the sale of Common Good land, including how it is protected and used for future generations, as well as the importance of community benefit, transparency and exploring alternative options. At the same time, we recognise that some respondents want to see the site brought back into use, with potential benefits for the local economy, improved facilities and the overall appearance of Banff.
The consultation was carried out in line with the statutory requirements for the disposal of Common Good land. This included a publicly advertised process, with information made available online and in paper format, and opportunities for people to submit their views. A question and answer document was also provided, setting out key information such as the location of the land, the reason for the proposed sale and the process being followed. The Council has a legal responsibility as custodian of Common Good assets and must follow a defined statutory process when considering any disposal. This includes public consultation, reporting findings to Committee, and seeking approval through the appropriate legal routes.
We also want to be clear about how Common Good assets are managed. Any proceeds from the sale would remain within the Common Good Fund, split equally between Banff and Macduff. This means the value is not lost and can be reinvested in projects and priorities that benefit the local community over the longer term.
We note the suggestions for community or recreational use, as well as alternatives such as leasing. These options were considered, however disposal of the land was preferred as it allows the value of the asset to be realised and reinvested, providing wider opportunities and benefits for the community.
While detailed and strongly held views were received, the overall number of responses was relatively low. This means the findings should be considered alongside wider evidence when making decisions. All feedback forms part of the Council’s decision-making process, alongside its responsibilities as custodian of Common Good assets, the potential benefits of the proposal, and the long-term interests of the community.
What we’re doing
A report was presented to the Banff and Buchan Committee on 16 June. The report can be found here, at item 14: Agenda for Banff and Buchan Area Committee on Tuesday, 16th June, 2026, 9.30 am - Aberdeenshire Council
The Committee agreed to:
Instruct the Head of Legal and People to conclude missives for the sale of the site to the previously identified preferred bidder
Instruct the Head of Legal and People to seek approval from the Sheriff Court under section 75 of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 to dispose of the Common Good element of the asset before progressing the sale
Aberdeenshire Council's Housing Rent Strategy Consultation

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What you told us
Thank you to everyone who took part in the Housing Rent Strategy Consultation. The online survey closed on 5 April 2026, and asked tenants about their views on housing services to help us improve and plan for the future. This year, your views are especially important as we begin discussions about future rent plans. The online survey ran alongside a telephone consultation, which remained open until June to allow more tenants to take part.
What we’re doing
We are currently bringing together feedback from both the online and telephone surveys. Early findings will be shared with tenants at the Communications Group in July, and further focus groups will be arranged to explore the feedback in more detail. A full update on the results will be published in due course.
What you told us
Thank you to everyone who took part in the Housing Rent Strategy Consultation. The online survey closed on 5 April 2026, and asked tenants about their views on housing services to help us improve and plan for the future. This year, your views are especially important as we begin discussions about future rent plans. The online survey ran alongside a telephone consultation, which remained open until June to allow more tenants to take part.
What we’re doing
We are currently bringing together feedback from both the online and telephone surveys. Early findings will be shared with tenants at the Communications Group in July, and further focus groups will be arranged to explore the feedback in more detail. A full update on the results will be published in due course.
Integrated Travel Towns

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What you told us
Earlier this year, we asked for your views on the Integrated Travel Towns project, which aims to make it easier, safer and more sustainable to travel around our towns. Using the Placecheck tool, you shared your experiences of getting around, highlighted areas that work well, and identified places where improvements could be made for walking, wheeling, cycling and public transport. This part of the exercise closed on 27 March, and we received a wide range of comments, ideas and suggestions. All of this feedback is publicly available on the Placecheck tool, and we’ve carefully noted all comments. You can view the comments here: Placecheck Online
What we’re doing
We are currently reviewing and considering all of the feedback received. As this work is ongoing, we’re not yet in a position to share final outcomes. However, there will be more opportunities to get involved over the summer, and we’ll continue to provide updates as the project progresses. You can view the project page here: Integrated Travel Towns | Engage Aberdeenshire
What you told us
Earlier this year, we asked for your views on the Integrated Travel Towns project, which aims to make it easier, safer and more sustainable to travel around our towns. Using the Placecheck tool, you shared your experiences of getting around, highlighted areas that work well, and identified places where improvements could be made for walking, wheeling, cycling and public transport. This part of the exercise closed on 27 March, and we received a wide range of comments, ideas and suggestions. All of this feedback is publicly available on the Placecheck tool, and we’ve carefully noted all comments. You can view the comments here: Placecheck Online
What we’re doing
We are currently reviewing and considering all of the feedback received. As this work is ongoing, we’re not yet in a position to share final outcomes. However, there will be more opportunities to get involved over the summer, and we’ll continue to provide updates as the project progresses. You can view the project page here: Integrated Travel Towns | Engage Aberdeenshire
Draft Aberdeenshire Nature Network

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What you told us
Aberdeenshire Council invited feedback on a draft nature network for the area. The network links protected sites, local nature conservation sites and towns, using rivers and water corridors. It aims to support nature recovery and improve resilience. Full detail of the consultation, including the project documents and mapping, can be found here: Draft Aberdeenshire Nature Network | Engage Aberdeenshire
We received 54 responses to the consultation and are very grateful to those who provided feedback. Many thanks to you all.
36% of respondents agreed with the methodology used to create the nature network, and a majority of 64% said they did not. Comments on the methodology included:

That the range of habitats used in the mapping should be broadened out from rivers to include woodland, moorland, wetlands and grassland for example

The 250m buffer used around the rivers and protected sites lacks justification and is overly large

The map risks limiting built development by creating the impression of ‘no development’ zones

Long distance outdoor access paths such as the Deeside Way should be added

Rather the focussing on a single network, a more habitat focussed set of networks should be set up looking to join up like-for-like habitats such as a wetland network and a separate one for woodlands, providing a positive future vision

52% of respondents agreed with the proposed uses of the nature network, 48% disagreed. Comments on the proposed uses included:

Disappointment at the network being presented as non-restrictive and only a focus for voluntary/optional action. It was felt that would fall short of the needs for nature recovery

The key issues for nature are not addressed by the approach such as habitat loss, wildlife protection, pollution and development

The wide corridors risk limiting development

No measurable outcomes or monitoring processes are presented

What we are doing
We are now reviewing all the feedback given and looking to develop the methodology and mapping further in response. Our particular focus will be to:

Consider if and how we can build in a wider range of habitats into the methodology

Explore whether in and around towns we might represent the network differently

Make sure the network’s purpose and benefits are clearly explained, while setting out a positive vision for the future.

We plan to update the methodology and related documents, and then share them again for further consultation.
What you told us
Aberdeenshire Council invited feedback on a draft nature network for the area. The network links protected sites, local nature conservation sites and towns, using rivers and water corridors. It aims to support nature recovery and improve resilience. Full detail of the consultation, including the project documents and mapping, can be found here: Draft Aberdeenshire Nature Network | Engage Aberdeenshire
We received 54 responses to the consultation and are very grateful to those who provided feedback. Many thanks to you all.
36% of respondents agreed with the methodology used to create the nature network, and a majority of 64% said they did not. Comments on the methodology included:

That the range of habitats used in the mapping should be broadened out from rivers to include woodland, moorland, wetlands and grassland for example

The 250m buffer used around the rivers and protected sites lacks justification and is overly large

The map risks limiting built development by creating the impression of ‘no development’ zones

Long distance outdoor access paths such as the Deeside Way should be added

Rather the focussing on a single network, a more habitat focussed set of networks should be set up looking to join up like-for-like habitats such as a wetland network and a separate one for woodlands, providing a positive future vision

52% of respondents agreed with the proposed uses of the nature network, 48% disagreed. Comments on the proposed uses included:

Disappointment at the network being presented as non-restrictive and only a focus for voluntary/optional action. It was felt that would fall short of the needs for nature recovery

The key issues for nature are not addressed by the approach such as habitat loss, wildlife protection, pollution and development

The wide corridors risk limiting development

No measurable outcomes or monitoring processes are presented

What we are doing
We are now reviewing all the feedback given and looking to develop the methodology and mapping further in response. Our particular focus will be to:

Consider if and how we can build in a wider range of habitats into the methodology

Explore whether in and around towns we might represent the network differently

Make sure the network’s purpose and benefits are clearly explained, while setting out a positive vision for the future.

We plan to update the methodology and related documents, and then share them again for further consultation.
Banff and Buchan Playparks

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What you told us
Aberdeenshire Council invited feedback from the local community to help select their preferred design for a new Playpark Equipment, funded by the Scottish Government. The playparks being upgraded are:

High Shore, Macduff

Recreation Park, Portsoy

Midstreet, Cornhill

Pitblae Place, Fraserburgh

North Street, Aberchirder

Hardie Court, Aberchirder

Rathen Playpark, Rathen

Cairndenity Place, Inverallochy

Four design options were presented, with the designs shown below receiving almost 42% of the public vote.

What we're doing
Aberdeenshire Council’s Landscape Services have now ordered the new play equipment, which will be installed over the coming months. Thank you to everyone who took part and shared their views, your input has played an important role in shaping these play parks for the community.
What you told us
Aberdeenshire Council invited feedback from the local community to help select their preferred design for a new Playpark Equipment, funded by the Scottish Government. The playparks being upgraded are:

High Shore, Macduff

Recreation Park, Portsoy

Midstreet, Cornhill

Pitblae Place, Fraserburgh

North Street, Aberchirder

Hardie Court, Aberchirder

Rathen Playpark, Rathen

Cairndenity Place, Inverallochy

Four design options were presented, with the designs shown below receiving almost 42% of the public vote.

What we're doing
Aberdeenshire Council’s Landscape Services have now ordered the new play equipment, which will be installed over the coming months. Thank you to everyone who took part and shared their views, your input has played an important role in shaping these play parks for the community.
Huntly Conservation Area Boundary Review

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What you told us
Between November 2025 and March 2026, we asked your views on the revised boundary of the Huntly Conservation Area. We would like to thank everyone who took the time to share their feedback through the online survey. The detail of responses returned provided valuable insight into how the conservation area is viewed by residents and the potential impacts of any change.
What we’re doing
We are currently collating the all the survey responses we have received, and these will be used to shape the final Huntly Conservation Area boundary. Later this year, we will be attending Marr Area Committee to provide feedback on this exercise. The report to committee will be published on our website.
What you told us
Between November 2025 and March 2026, we asked your views on the revised boundary of the Huntly Conservation Area. We would like to thank everyone who took the time to share their feedback through the online survey. The detail of responses returned provided valuable insight into how the conservation area is viewed by residents and the potential impacts of any change.
What we’re doing
We are currently collating the all the survey responses we have received, and these will be used to shape the final Huntly Conservation Area boundary. Later this year, we will be attending Marr Area Committee to provide feedback on this exercise. The report to committee will be published on our website.
Buchan Area Playparks

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What you told us
Aberdeenshire Council invited feedback from the local community to help select their preferred design for a new Playpark Equipment, funded by the Scottish Government. The playparks being upgraded are Queens Lane in Boddam, Northfield Gardens in Hatton, Martin Terrace in Auchnagatt and Dales Park in Hatton. Four design options were presented, with the designs shown below receiving almost 38% of the public vote.
What we're doing
Aberdeenshire Council’s Landscape Services have now ordered the new play equipment, which will be installed over the coming months. Thank you to everyone who took part and shared their views, your input has played an important role in shaping these play parks for the community.
What you told us
Aberdeenshire Council invited feedback from the local community to help select their preferred design for a new Playpark Equipment, funded by the Scottish Government. The playparks being upgraded are Queens Lane in Boddam, Northfield Gardens in Hatton, Martin Terrace in Auchnagatt and Dales Park in Hatton. Four design options were presented, with the designs shown below receiving almost 38% of the public vote.
What we're doing
Aberdeenshire Council’s Landscape Services have now ordered the new play equipment, which will be installed over the coming months. Thank you to everyone who took part and shared their views, your input has played an important role in shaping these play parks for the community.
Buchan Area Playparks

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What you told us
Aberdeenshire Council invited feedback from the local community to help select their preferred design for new playpark equipment, funded by the Scottish Government. The playparks being upgraded are Leeds Terrace playpark in New Leeds, Penny Park in Boddam and Fairwinds playpark in Peterhead. Five design options were presented, with the designs shown below receiving almost 43% of the public vote.

What we're doing
Aberdeenshire Council’s Landscape Services have now ordered the new play equipment, which will be installed over the coming months. Thank you to everyone who took part and shared their views, your input has played an important role in shaping these play parks for the community.
What you told us
Aberdeenshire Council invited feedback from the local community to help select their preferred design for new playpark equipment, funded by the Scottish Government. The playparks being upgraded are Leeds Terrace playpark in New Leeds, Penny Park in Boddam and Fairwinds playpark in Peterhead. Five design options were presented, with the designs shown below receiving almost 43% of the public vote.

What we're doing
Aberdeenshire Council’s Landscape Services have now ordered the new play equipment, which will be installed over the coming months. Thank you to everyone who took part and shared their views, your input has played an important role in shaping these play parks for the community.
Fraserburgh Beach Play Area

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What you told us
Aberdeenshire Council invited feedback from the local community to select a preferred design to upgrade the Fraserburgh Beach Play Park. The project aims to enhance the overall play experience, offering an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike. The project is supported by funding from the Scottish Government.
Two design options were presented. The public consultation ran from February 25th to March 15th, 2026. 254 individuals participated in the public vote, 25 of which did so via in-person community events while 229 participated online via the Engage Aberdeenshire website. The design shown below received the most support, with 75% of the total public vote choosing this option.

What we’re doing
Aberdeenshire Council’s Landscape Services team have contracted the successful company to progress with ordering and installing the new play equipment. The equipment will be installed over the coming months. Aberdeenshire Council will also be undertaking some upgrade works on site to complement the new equipment and further enhance the overall play experience.
An update on the confirmed installation dates will be shared here and via local social media channels, along with details of any temporary park closures and re-opening dates.
Thank you to everyone who took part and shared their views, your input has played an important role in shaping the play park equipment for the community.
What you told us
Aberdeenshire Council invited feedback from the local community to select a preferred design to upgrade the Fraserburgh Beach Play Park. The project aims to enhance the overall play experience, offering an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike. The project is supported by funding from the Scottish Government.
Two design options were presented. The public consultation ran from February 25th to March 15th, 2026. 254 individuals participated in the public vote, 25 of which did so via in-person community events while 229 participated online via the Engage Aberdeenshire website. The design shown below received the most support, with 75% of the total public vote choosing this option.

What we’re doing
Aberdeenshire Council’s Landscape Services team have contracted the successful company to progress with ordering and installing the new play equipment. The equipment will be installed over the coming months. Aberdeenshire Council will also be undertaking some upgrade works on site to complement the new equipment and further enhance the overall play experience.
An update on the confirmed installation dates will be shared here and via local social media channels, along with details of any temporary park closures and re-opening dates.
Thank you to everyone who took part and shared their views, your input has played an important role in shaping the play park equipment for the community.