The Marr Area Committee meeting on 18 June 2024 covered a range of topics, including planning permissions, performance monitoring, and community funding. Key decisions included the approval of a glamping site near Inverurie and the allocation of large and small grants to various community projects.

Full Planning Permission for Glamping Pods

The committee approved the erection of six glamping pods, decking, hot tubs, and a parking area at Woodend of Braco, Pitcaple, Inverurie. The Senior Planner highlighted the project's potential to attract visitors and extend their stays, despite concerns about its proximity to the Bennachie Centre and Gordon Way. Jennifer Ross of John Wink Design, the agent for the project, emphasised the development's benefits for tourism and biodiversity. The committee approved the application as a departure from the Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan 2023 and National Planning Framework 4, citing its economic benefits.

Education & Children's Services Year-End Performance Monitoring Report

The committee reviewed the Education & Children's Services Year-End Performance Monitoring Report 2023/24. The Head of Service (Communities, Wellbeing and Partnerships) noted that almost all performance indicators in Marr were on target. Discussions focused on supporting foundation apprenticeships in remote areas, participation in sports, and achieving outcomes related to integrated working and business support within the directorate.

Draft Place Policy and Strategy

The committee discussed the draft Place Policy and Strategy, providing several comments. Members queried how to engage communities that do not wish to undertake Local Place Plans, stressed the importance of meaningful community consultation, and highlighted the need for better-defined climate change policies. The draft policy will be considered by the Community Planning Partnership Board and Full Council in June 2024.

Landscape Services Works Programme 2024/25

The committee approved the proposed programmes of works for Landscape Services for 2024/25. Discussions included issues related to ash dieback, Dutch Elm disease, anti-social behaviour, biodiversity works, and playpark improvements. Members requested additional dog waste signage for the Huntly Meadows pitches and prioritised Glamorhaugh Park over Deveron Park on the reserve list.

Marr Area Committee Budget - Large Grant Applications

The committee considered twelve applications for funding through the Marr Area Committee Budget Large Grant Scheme 2024/25. Approved applications included funding for resilience hubs, hall improvements, and community projects. The committee also approved, in principle, applications from Banchory Community Football Club and Scottish Sculpture Workshop, subject to further information. Applications from Mid Deeside Community Trust and Assistance Dogs Scotland were refused.

Marr Area Committee Budget - Small Grant Applications

The committee approved two applications for funding through the Marr Area Committee Budget Small Grant Scheme. Funding was allocated to Orb’s Community Bookshop CIC for the Festival of Illustration and Glass School Parent Council for a community cabin library.

Supplementary Directorate Procurement Plan - Procurement Approval

The committee reviewed an exempt report on the Supplementary Procurement Plan for Live Life Aberdeenshire. The plan was noted and approved, with no items reserved for further approval.