Banff, Macduff and District Partnership Place Plan

What you told us

The Banff and Buchan Local Community Planning Group is developing a Place Plan for Banff, Macduff and the surrounding area. To help shape the plan, local residents, community groups, businesses and partner organisations were invited to share their views through surveys, workshops, drop-in events and other engagement activities.

More than 2,500 comments and ratings were gathered from people living, working and visiting the area. The feedback highlighted many things people value about the area, alongside concerns about the challenges facing local communities.

What people value

Residents told us they value:

  • The area's strong community spirit and local pride
  • Beaches, parks, green spaces and the wider natural environment
  • Community facilities such as libraries, local hubs and community projects
  • The area's heritage, identity and sense of place
  • Local services and amenities that help people connect and support wellbeing.

What could be improved

Common themes raised during the engagement included:

  • Public transport and connections between communities
  • Roads, paths, active travel routes and getting around safely
  • The condition and maintenance of public spaces, buildings and infrastructure
  • Supporting local businesses, employment opportunities and vibrant town centres
  • Access to services, activities and opportunities for people of all ages
  • Making it easier for people to influence decisions and see how feedback leads to action

Residents also highlighted the importance of ensuring communities remain attractive, well-maintained and welcoming places to live, work and visit.

What we're doing

The feedback has been combined with local data, evidence from partner organisations and existing community plans to help identify priorities for the emerging Place Plan.

Based on what we've heard so far, work is focusing on four broad themes:

Movement and Connectivity

Exploring opportunities to improve transport connections, active travel routes and accessibility so people can move around the area safely and easily.

Town Centre Regeneration, Tourism and Business Growth

Looking at ways to support local businesses, improve town centres, encourage investment and build on the area's heritage and tourism assets.

Wellbeing, Services and Activities

Considering how access to services, community facilities and opportunities can be strengthened to support healthier and more connected communities.

Community Voice and Empowerment

Identifying ways to strengthen community involvement in local decision-making and improve communication between communities, organisations and public services.

The next stage of work will involve further discussions with community representatives, local organisations and public sector partners to help develop actions and priorities under each theme. Once this work has been completed, a draft Place Plan will be produced and shared with the community.

Please note: The Banff, Macduff and District Place Plan is still being developed. This update provides an overview of the main messages we heard during engagement. More detailed feedback and information on proposed actions will be shared as work on the plan develops.

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