Changes made to 'spaces for people' measures in Aberdeenshire towns

Following engagement around the Spaces for People measures with local councillors, community representatives and businesses groups – reductions in the measures have been implemented.

The extent of the removals has been entirely dependent on the outcome of those discussions and varies from town to town.

The part or complete removal of Spaces for People measures has been a sensitive and complex issue and the council is stressing the need for everyone to adhere to the clear national guidance around how we can all suppress the spread of Covid-19 - regular washing of hands, wearing of face coverings, avoidance of crowded places and maintaining 2m physical-distancing at all times in Aberdeenshire’s towns and villages.

Ewan Wallace, Head of Transportation, said: “These measures have been one element of our council-wide response to the Covid-19 pandemic. While we acknowledge that for some residents and businesses they may not have not been popular, our over-arching aim has been to support public safety at all times.

“The Spaces for People approach was - and remains - a temporary measure and in due course we look forward to being able to fully remove the measures when it is considered appropriate to do so. Many of the measures may then form part of permanent town centre proposals in 2021 and beyond – such as 20mph limits and enhanced footway widths.”

The confirmed changes are as follows:

Banchory - Maintaining measures at pinch-points only and retention of 20mph.

Ellon - Minor change to Station Road – all other measures remain in-situ.

Fraserburgh - Removal of all measures on High Street, Saltoun Square car park and in the parking layby on Broad Street. Due to the on-going works to the old John Trail building on Mid Street and encroachment of the works scaffolding into the carriageway, we have retained the existing Mid Street measures in order that we leave sufficient carriageway width for larger vehicles to safely pass the scaffolding. These measures will remain in place for at least the period of the scaffolding works.

Inverurie - Minor change to Burn Lane, with the barriers removed at the west end nearest Constitution Street. Barriers have also been removed along the long car park in Market Place. A sign has been placed at the top of Western Road to deter use, as it does not form part of the diversion route – all other measures will remain in-situ and kept under review.

Peterhead - Road closures remain in Marischal Street and Thistle Street along with all the 20mph speed limits implemented in the town centre. All other measures have been removed.

Stonehaven - Stonehaven town centre and beachfront 20mph speed limits still in place. Pinch points including outdoor queuing at some takeaway outlets, bakers, ice cream shops, chemists, and one butcher, due to limited space inside shops.

Turriff - Removal of all measures with exception of 20mph speed limit.