The Aberdeenshire Council's Infrastructure Services Committee meeting on 20 June 2024 covered a range of topics, including the approval of the Aberdeenshire Development Plan Scheme 2024-2025, a review of the Council’s membership in the North Sea Commission, and updates on Invest Aberdeen and the Carbon Budget 2023-2024. Key decisions were made regarding the continuation of the Council’s membership in the North Sea Commission and the approval of vehicle and plant replacements for the upcoming financial years.

Aberdeenshire Development Plan Scheme 2024-2025

The Committee approved the Aberdeenshire Development Plan Scheme 2024-2025, which outlines the programme to produce the Local Development Plan and actions to involve the public. The Planning Service Manager highlighted public engagement efforts since January 2024 and discussed further engagement opportunities with young people, including within schools.

Developing Excellence in Our North Coast Communities End of Programme Report

The Committee reviewed the final report on the regeneration strategy for Banff, Macduff, Fraserburgh, and Peterhead. The report detailed progress in encouraging town centre footfall and repurposing empty properties. The Head of Planning and Economy mentioned the development of a Place Policy to enable responsive services across the Council. The Committee noted the report and comments from the Banff and Buchan and Buchan Area Committees.

North Sea Commission

The Committee discussed the Council’s membership in the Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions (CPMR) and North Sea Commission (NSC). The review highlighted benefits but also noted the lack of resources for continued membership. The Committee agreed to continue membership for 2024-25, pending a full review to develop clear objectives and resource identification.

Invest Aberdeen Update

An update on Invest Aberdeen for the financial year 2023-24 was provided, detailing key activities and performance indicators. The Head of Planning and Economy discussed ongoing projects and the need for continued investment in the region’s infrastructure. The Committee approved the annual report and the Council’s ongoing participation in the Invest Aberdeen partnership.

Carbon Budget 2023-2024 Final Update

The final update on the Carbon Budget 2023-2024 was presented, noting that the Council was unlikely to meet its target due to issues such as supply chain problems with the LED street lights programme. The Committee acknowledged the update and awaited the Scottish Government’s reassessment of interim targets and climate change legislation.

Environment and Infrastructure Services Heads of Service Business Plans

The Committee reviewed the Heads of Service Business Plans, which outline the direction, standards, budget, priorities, and performance indicators for each service. The Committee endorsed the plans and agreed to receive performance reports on a six-monthly basis.

Long Term Plan for Towns - Peterhead

The Committee discussed the UK Government’s decision to include Peterhead in the Long Term Plan for Towns, part of the Levelling Up programme. The Council will establish a Town Board and develop a long-term plan. The Committee acknowledged the Council’s responsibilities and confirmed arrangements for regular briefings and annual reports.

Vehicle Replacement Plan 2024-25 & 2025-26

The Committee approved the proposed vehicle and plant replacements for the financial years 2024/25 and 2025/26, with estimated expenditures of £5,683,000 and £3,000,000, respectively. The Committee also acknowledged the backlog of vehicle replacements due to budget pressures.

Roads and Infrastructure Supplementary Procurement Plan

The Committee authorised the procurement of two business systems for online fault reporting and the replacement of a legacy job costing system. The Directorate Supplementary Procurement Plan was approved, and the items will be added to the Directorate Procurement Plan.

Noted Minutes

The Committee noted the minutes of the Harbours Sub-Committee, Planning & Environment Members Officer Working Group, Waste Management Working Group, and North East Scotland Fisheries Development Partnership meetings.