WATCH: Dozens meet to save St Fittick's Park

Dozens of Torry residents met to voice their opposition to any proposals to built an energy transition zone on St Fittick's Park.

Author: Lewis MichiePublished 12th Jul 2021
Last updated 13th Jul 2021

Dozens of local residents have met with North East MSP Maggie Chapman to oppose the building of an energy transition zone on St Fittick's Park in Torry.

The Green MSP wants the Scottish Government to put conditions on funding it has agreed to provide for the project - meaning 'existing brown land' would need to be used, ruling out the Community Park.

Holyrood has pledged £26 Million towards the project.

The Council say no planning permission proposal has been made as of yet, which means no location has been decided on.

But the area is thought to be considered a suitable spot by ETZ LTD - the group leading the plans.

That's due to it's close proximity to the new harbour development.

Locals highlighted their concerns over the idea. Many were concerned about the loss of green space and it's impact on the environment, the wildlife that lives there, and the communities ability to exercise.

Effects on mental health by not having the land available were also mentioned, with residents saying the existing infrastructure can't cope with traffic at present, so how will it manage with this addition.

Watch, our Interview with Ian, a Torry resident:

Maggie Chapman lodged a motion in Holyrood last week on her disapproval of any building on St Fittick's.

Now she will be looking to launch an internet campaign for locals to have their say.

Chapman tells us she doesn't believe the communities' voice has been heard:

A spokesperson for ETZ Ltd said:

"We welcome the significant financial backing given to the Energy Transition Zone by both the Scottish and UK Governments who share our view this is an exciting project that will reposition the North East of Scotland as a globally recognised integrated energy cluster. This project will deliver sustainable jobs and growth for the region as well as contribute significantly to the net zero ambition.

"We also welcome that Aberdeen City Councillors have backed the proposed Local Development Plan and note the Council has been clear that any subsequent planning application will include statutory consultation and community engagement at the appropriate time.

"We cannot pre-judge these processes but are clear that, crucial to the project’s success, is ensuring we partner with the local community and consider the importance of green civic space in the vicinity of the proposed zone, through all phases of its development.

"In terms of the proposed location for the zone, a majority of the new Scotwind licenses, currently being applied for, are within 100 miles of Aberdeen. The Scottish Government has described this process as “pivotal” for the expansion of Scotland’s offshore wind sector and we want the North East to experience as much economic benefit from these licences as possible.

"Having the Energy Transition Zone located in close proximity to the new deep water Aberdeen South Harbour to support offshore wind activities is crucial in terms of attracting potential investors. It is important to note that a key focus of this proposal is developing various existing brownfield sites for energy transition related uses – both in East Tullos and Altens – and these locations are key to a thriving cluster within the heart of the Energy Transition Zone.

"It is also important to stress that it will be a key priority of ETZ Ltd to ensure the benefits of the project are widespread and felt keenly amongst those citizens who live and work in close proximity to the proposed Energy Transition Zone.

"For example, a crucial component of the Energy Transition Zone will be the creation of a new Energy Skills Academy Hub to support inclusive employment opportunities that will unlock exciting careers and job opportunities for future generations across the community, particularly those areas in the immediate vicinity of the Zone.”

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