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Braemar Community Action Plan May 2013 Introduction Community Action Plan

Welcome! is on the tourist route This document brings together a wide from Perth to , which range of actions and projects, which climbs over Pass, the the Braemar community believes are highest through-road in the country, achievable and would deliver short, and follows the River Dee along its medium and/or long-term benefits for the picturesque valley. Surrounded by village. unspoilt and unpopulated countryside, it is nevertheless within an hour and a . Following a thorough and inclusive half’s drive of three major cities: Perth, consultation programme, all the proposed and Aberdeen. actions and projects are grouped under one of four themes: Almost all Braemar is now designated as a conservation area. The village is • Visitors Strategy, Attractions & Services compact, with a mix of grand Victorian • Community Services & Transport houses, modest cottages, narrow roads • Youth and lanes, retaining a unique character. • Housing, Employment & The Economy

The four themes are described more fully The village, treasured by many, has on pages 6 to 8, while the tables on pages so much going for it and, as the 12 to 15 list each project together with its National Park approaches its 10th anniversary, is ideally placed Invercauld House. associated key partners. to work with others to seek funding Introduction for a host of projects to secure a Braemar lies at the heart of the prosperous future. in some of the highest and most mountainous Braemar In The Past landscape of the UK. Surrounded by Braemar’s origins are rooted in mountains, heather moorland, pine and antiquity. The area has been strategically birch wood, the village spans the rocky important since early times. Hill passes gorge of the Clunie Water. - from the north, south, east and west - converge where the modern village For generations, the scenery and pure now stands. mountain air have attracted visitors who come to enjoy walking, climbing, The earliest settlement is believed wildlife watching, cycling, hang-gliding, to have been near the raised mound Braemar sign. canoeing, fishing, stalking, golf and skiing. where Braemar is now situated. The first church dedicated to Saint Within close proximity to over a Andrew in was built here quarter of Scotland’s , the area and the area came to be known as St has been the inspiration for countless Andrews or Doldencha. writers, artists as well as photographers, and many visitors return again and again. Fine hunting first brought royal patronage. In the 10th century, King A cohesive and supportive community Kenneth MacAlpin enjoyed sport of around 450 inhabitants, the village here. The rocky hill which forms the is known around the world for the backdrop to the village bears his name: annual Braemar Gathering. The event Kenneth’s Crag or Creag Choinnnich. attracts around 15,000 people on the In the 11th century, King Malcolm first Saturday in September each year Canmore built a fine hunting lodge Looking towards Auchendryne. and has the patronage of Her Majesty on the banks of the Clunie and is the Queen. credited with being the first to use a competitive hill race to find his fittest,

2 Introduction Community Action Plan

strongest and fastest messengers, a them to stay longer and establishing a tradition which lives on in the annual more robust economy. Braemar Gathering. Braemar continues to be an is known to have internationally renowned area for been in regular use by Scottish kings shooting, fishing and stalking, with until the 16th century. Around the sporting visitors to Invercauld, Mar and castle, grew the village of Castleton Mar Lodge estates injecting valuable on Invercauld Estate which, along with income into the local economy. The Braemar village centre c1960. Auchendryne (field of the thorns) on stunning natural environment also Mar Estate, forms the modern Braemar. attracts hundreds of thousands each Invercauld and Mar estates continued year to the village and surrounding to play influential roles in Braemar’s area, generating significant income history, investment and evolution over through tourism. hundreds of years. Braemar already has much to attract By the 17th century Kindrochit was visitors as well as new residents. ruinous and a new Castle of was Although the population of around 450 built by the of Mar, near the site is small, the school roll is rising and of the original St Andrews. In 1715, the new houses are being built. Children gave the village a lasting are well served by the Primary School, place in the history of Scotland when with a head teacher and a staff of two. The Arms taxi service c1890. he raised the standard to start the For secondary education, youngsters 1715 Jacobite uprising. attend Academy (27 miles away). Up until the 19th century, Gaelic was the language spoken by the inhabitants A resident doctor is on call 24 of Braemar, evidenced by local place hours a day and there is a sheltered names. The arrival of housing complex with 12 residents. on in 1848 brought an influx An emergency service is provided by of English visitors and created the new a team of first responders, all locally industry of tourism for the village. retained members of the Grampian The Gaelic language was laid aside and Fire & Rescue Service. A highly Braemar embraced new opportunities. experienced volunteer Mountain Hotels and businesses, designed to Rescue Team, which operates in serve the new wave of visitors, sprang partnership with Grampian Police, also Castleton Terrace. The Old Mill, now The Bank House, up and the village, as we know it today, has a training base in the village. Hutchinson’s meat purveyor, Weather station c1880. began.

Braemar Today The community and visitors are well Today Braemar is a vibrant community served by local services and shops striving to become even better, with with a garage and service station, a raft of different projects underway. pharmacist and newsagent, high class The economy of the village is heavily butcher, Co-operative store, art gallery, dependent on tourism. Helping to keep sporran maker, mountain sports shop visitors informed about all the activities and around seven other shops offering available, the Visitor Information Centre a wide range of gifts, food and clothing. provides a year-round service. Now There is also an 18-hole golf course, there is a real desire to extend further reputed to be the highest in Scotland, both summer and winter seasons by and the UK’s largest skiing area, Hunting and fishing parties c 1880. creating additional attractions to bring , is just 10 miles more visitors to Braemar, persuading away.

3 Introduction Community Action Plan

The two large coaching hotels provide BCL has operated as accommodation for around 320. a visitor attraction on behalf of the There are also three smaller private community on a 50-year improving hotels, five guest houses, around six lease from Invercauld Estate. It is B&Bs, two bunkhouses and the Youth also engaged in exploring a micro- Hostel, as well as over a dozen self- hydroelectric scheme at Corriemulzie catering properties. There is a caravan on Mar Estate, the building of a new site with accommodation for 100 footbridge over the Dee and, along Castleton of Braemar. caravans and 30 tents. Nearby, too, is with the project team, the restoration the National Trust for Scotland’s Mar and revitalisation of Sir Ninian Lodge, which operates as self-catering Comper’s architectural masterpiece, St accommodation and as a popular Margaret’s Church. It has also recently wedding venue. restored the ancient Auchtavan crofting settlement as a self-guided attraction Three churches operate in the village: with dedicated open days. Church of Scotland, St Andrews Roman Catholic Church and an Annual events are an important Episcopalian congregation at Mar element in the life of Braemar, with Lodge. Each has an active following, the Junior attracting welcoming many visitors, especially in crowds of over a thousand and the the summer months. Braemar Gathering in excess of 15,000. Looking to Cairngorms from Glenshee. To capitalise on the popularity of There is a choice of eating highland gatherings, Braemar Royal establishments offering a range of Highland Society has commissioned a services from coffee shops and casual feasibility study into a Highland Games bar meals to restaurants, serving Discovery Centre for the village locally sourced quality meals. There to help turn Braemar into a “must is also a take-away establishment see” tourist destination. The Jacobite providing curry and pizza as well as Day at Braemar Castle accounts for fish and chips. over 700, supporting the case for a dedicated Visitor Centre. The annual A thriving variety of clubs and TGO Challenge and the Balmoral societies operates in the village. There Road Races, as well as the recently is a long established SWRI, a Scout introduced Creative Arts Festival, also group, bowling club, local newspaper help to bring visitors to the village. River Dee near Braemar. group, country dance group, book groups, local history group, choir, Community Action Planning traditional music group, lunch club, The purpose of community action pantomime group, walking groups as planning for Braemar was first explored well as fiddle, bagpipe and highland at a public meeting held in the Village dancing classes. The Village Hall is the Hall in March 2012. Over 30 people venue for a number of both local and attended to discuss the process and visiting musical groups and events. The consider its potential benefits: Castleton Hall offers bookable facilities including snooker, as well as hosting • to enable local people to say what popular Beaver, Cub and Scout groups. they want for Braemar – now and in Explorer Scouts meet at a separate the future. hall, The Shieling. • to encourage everyone to think about what they value and want to Travelling Blaeberries. There is an active Community protect. Council, a tourism group and Braemar • to build on existing good work, by Community Ltd (BCL), a charity set publicising and seeking support for up to help deliver projects. Since 2007, 4 Introduction Community Action Plan

ongoing projects. village-wide survey was completed by • to evidence community needs to 96 individuals or households in May. generate support from agencies and As well as harvesting the comments funding bodies. and views from the survey, a number • to prepare a plan for short, medium of other consultation initiatives fed and long-term needs and aspirations. into the drafting of the Braemar • to engender collaboration to make Community Action Plan. Braemar even better. These included an event in June when Braemar Junior Highland Games. At that initial open meeting it was 17 young people were asked for their agreed that a steering group should be views on Braemar and what could be set up by the Community Council. improved, and another during the same month, when primary school children Meeting regularly between April 2012 were asked to draw pictures of things and January 2013, the steering group they want for the village. Information was determined that there should be gleaned from these targeted meetings an open process, involving everyone in was particularly valuable given that, and around Braemar, to publicise and overall, 92% of responders were aged generate support for community action 36 or over. planning, beginning with a detailed, village-wide survey. A drop-in session in July attracted more than 60 people, who were Fire Brigade and Braemar Cubs. The steering group was equally given the opportunity to learn about determined that Braemar’s community information that had been gathered and action plan should build on previous to view displays by a number of groups endeavours such as the community on their activities and projects. vision work included as part of the Cairngorms National Park Authority A further open meeting was held in (CNPA) development plan review. September, attended by around 30. Similarly, it should take account of Four themes for action were distilled the recent Master Plan exercise down by the steering group to help which focused on proposed built create this document, Braemar’s development in the village over the Community Action Plan, which next 10-plus years. was submitted to stakeholders for comments before receiving final As well as the steering group and approval from the Community Council Snow gates and webcam. Community Council, support for on 18 February 2013: community action planning was provided by the CNPA, • Visitor Strategy, Attractions & Services Council, and the Marr Community • Community Services & Transport. Planning Group. Assistance was also • Youth provided by the Marr Area Partnership • Housing, Employment & The Economy and the Deeside Donside Development Project. The steering group together with BCL, obtained funding for the part-time appointment in November of a Community Action Planning Support Officer.

Promoted through a dedicated website, St Margaret’s audience. the Braemar Buzzard, the Community Council and through local shops, the

5 Top Four Priorities Community Action Plan

Theme 1: Visitor Strategy, that around 100,000 visitors a year Attractions & Services stop at the Linn of Dee car park. Tempered by the results of the More information is also required to survey, the steering group believes understand the needs of visitors so that the paramount objective for that services can be better tailored Braemar should be to develop a to their needs. It was suggested that clear, overarching strategy for visitor visitor surveys be carried out at some management. Ideally, this should include high footfall locations to plug the Highlanders en route to the Braemar Gathering. the development of a brand identity to information gaps. position and differentiate the village’s unique selling propositions. The survey also confirmed that local people most value Braemar’s Development of a formal visitor magnificent scenery, wildlife and strategy will require objective external tranquil environment. Similarly, support and resources. It also would when asked about what should require buy-in from all sections of the be protected or enhanced, there community, calling for collaboration was a clear consensus in favour of between groups in the village. It should wildlife, woodland and open spaces. complement, rather than duplicate or A significant proportion of responses compete with, plans already developed also highlighted the village’s sense of by others such as the Royal Deeside & community, low crime rate and its small Braemar Castle. Cairngorms Destination Management size. Organisation (RDCDMO). And, crucially, it should be a dynamic Suggestions were received about how document, revisited and refreshed over to enhance Braemar’s attractiveness time. to visitors, with many people wishing to see improvements made to the Integral to delivery of the community appearance of the village in terms action plan and owned by the of signage, visitor facilities, customer Community Council, the process of service training, litter reduction, engaging a suitable consultant to carry landscaping and hanging baskets. out such an exercise will require a steering group or lead organisation. Outdoors, even though two-thirds The CNPA has already offered to said they believe there are enough Red Squirrel. provide support funding with other footpaths around the village, there is organisations indicating that they a need for quality improvements and may also contribute including the link paths. Much progress has already Cairngorms Business Partnership been achieved by, for example, the (CBP), National Trust for Scotland Upper Deeside Access Trust (UDAT) (NTS) and Aberdeenshire Council and Cairngorms Outdoor Access Trust (AC). Such a strategy should take (COAT). Yet there are opportunities to account of neighbouring tourist push ahead with the Dee footbridge organisations including Glenshee and and completion of the Deeside Way , as well as reflecting tourism connecting Braemar with Ballater and strategies already developed at Lower Deeside. regional and national levels. A recurring theme also called for co- New ways are needed to persuade ordination of destination marketing Royal Pavilion at the Braemar Gathering. people to stop in the village and spend initiatives both within the village and money. While further visitor data also with other nearby attractions such needs to be collected, it is known as Glenshee ski centre and mountain

6 Top Four Priorities Community Action Plan

biking. Co-ordinated marketing of Council, views were mixed in terms Braemar, as well as cross-selling of its of refuse collection and snow clearing. existing experiences and activities, are There is a belief that refuse lorries seen as vital. The continued support of should empty bins more frequently, organisations such as the RDCDMO, that there should be a garden refuse CBP, CNPA and others, is also key. collection, a large item uplift service, more frequent library visits and a snow Given Braemar’s climate, many plough based in the village. responders volunteered ideas Mar Lodge. for indoor activities including the A significant proportion believes development of a swimming pool, that opportunities for adult learning tennis court, climbing centre and could be improved (59%), with IT museum. cited by many responders. Concerns were voiced regarding the future There is also an appetite to develop of the nursery and several noted a visitor centre for Braemar Castle, that secondary school pupils were an arts centre, a Highland Games disadvantaged by the distance they Heritage Centre, a boutique hotel, need to travel. consistent signage and a programme of improvements for Kindrochit Castle. In terms of accessing local information, Many of these ambitious projects will the survey makes a case for an Linn of Dee. require further market testing and a improved noticeboard and website. feasibility study before they can be Local media such as the Deeside Piper progressed. There were also calls for and Braemar Buzzard, together with refurbishment of the Village Hall and word-of-mouth, were cited as being suggestions made regarding enhanced most used as information sources, with use of other facilities including the golf radio and Braemar’s village website club. least used.

When asked for ideas about how to Asked about any additional services make Braemar even better, some of which might be needed to help the other suggestions which emerged residents remain at home, 57% included improved shopping, a late bus, expressed the view that more could be a pub, an internet café, better transport provided, especially for the elderly. Such links, cafés and restaurants staying services could include a day centre for Massed pipe bands. open longer, and completion of the the elderly, a night settling service and footbridge over the Dee. local care worker.

Theme 2: Community While 66% said they believe health Services & Transport service provision to be satisfactory, Of the 96 survey respondents, nearly the lack of a locally-based ambulance two-thirds said they take an active role concerns many. Similarly, the distance in one or more community groups needed to travel for dentist or (64%). A similar proportion believes chiropodist appointments causes community groups work well together difficulties for some. There was (65%), although there was consensus considerable support for the local GP, that more could be done to coordinate who provides a 24/7 service. efforts for the benefit of the village as a whole. Considering Braemar’s carbon Red Deer. footprint, a number of responders For services provided by Aberdeenshire voiced their objections to wind

7 Top Four Priorities Community Action Plan

turbines, although few are permitted Theme 4: Housing, within the Cairngorms National Park. Employment & The There was considerable support, Economy however, for a hydroelectric facility, The survey revealed a dichotomy, solar panels, biomass scheme and with nearly every respondent calling community-based Combined Heat & for more affordable rented housing, Power (CHP) project. Improved public with many of these also saying that transport links would also considerably they cherish Braemar’s small size Braemar Primary School. reduce car use. and conservation status. A new Local Development Plan is being The most frequently mentioned cause developed by CNPA, outlining areas for dissatisfaction, cited across a for development, although details number of survey questions, relates to on allocation policy have yet to be public transport. Recurring concerns addressed. include: expensive, infrequent and unreliable services to Aberdeen, as well Of the survey respondents, 46% say as the complete lack of any services to they run their own business or work Blairgowrie and Perth, as well as other from home. They cited the lack of villages within the Park. affordable housing and, specifically, lack of accommodation for seasonal Suggestions volunteered include Braemar Cubs. employees as a hindrance to business. the introduction of an express bus service to Aberdeen, new services Looking at means to help stimulate to the south and other parts of the business start-ups and existing Park, a dedicated school bus, a local businesses, there was a clear majority taxi service and a shuttle service to looking for faster broadband. Given the Linn of Dee and Linn of Quoich. that significant funds are being made Meetings have already been organised available by the Scottish Government to begin discussions between and Aberdeenshire Council, there is transport providers, CNPA, community an opportunity for Braemar to bid for representatives and relevant local further investment. authorities. Ideas were also proposed including IT, Theme 3: Youth business and customer service training, Braemar Scouts. Many responders complained of low-cost workshop and office units, as continuing drainage issues in the well as much more collaboration with play park, together with the need for economic development agencies. improving play equipment. Many also recognise the need for Some cited the lack of activities for improved marketing for the village and teenagers in the village as a cause Braemar-based businesses, and call for for real concern, together with few a reduction in the use of non-local opportunities for local employment. support services and tradespeople. There was, therefore, considerable enthusiasm for re-establishing a Youth Club with new facilities put in place.

Highland Dancing.

8 Next Steps Community Action Plan

Next Steps Every effort will be made to keep the The steering group’s work is now community informed of developments, complete. The next step is the with interest expressed in joining one establishment of a small co-ordinating of the resulting sub-groups very much group, tasked with tracking progress welcomed! against the four themes for action, as well as keeping the Community Finally, to all those who attended Council updated. public meetings, responded to the survey, took part in other consultation Looking towards Braemar Butcher. While nobody should expect that all meetings, as well as those organisations the concerns and ideas raised through who lent their expertise or funding, the the survey and other consultations can steering group would like to extend be addressed, the Braemar Community sincere thanks! For all who love living Action Plan is based on what is in Braemar, our new Community Action believed to be achievable. The tables Plan represents a great opportunity provide a guide to what it is intended to look ahead with excitement and to deliver over the short, medium and confidence. long terms, with precise timings varying between projects and difficult to assess at present. As projects are developed and finalised over time, priorities 7 Castleton Terrace c1880. will necessarily change. Braemar’s Community Action Plan will need to keep pace and, as such, should be kept under careful and ongoing review.

A number of other project ideas emerged during the consultation process, which currently fall outwith the community action plan remit. For completeness, however, they are captured in a separate table.

Delivery of a whole range of projects identified within the tables will require 7 Castleton Terrace c1983. the setting up of sub-groups, each responsible for its own remit, and partnerships with other individuals and organisations. Some projects, such as development of the St Margaret’s Church Arts Centre, Highland Games Heritage Centre and Braemar Castle Visitor Centre, will require significantly more resources than others. Determining what’s needed will be the task of each sub-group. For the purposes of this plan, however, the tables provide a brief summary of actions proposed. Castleton Terrace. The Bank house c1983.

9 Next Steps Community Action Plan

Delivering The Braemar Community Action Plan

Braemar Community Council

Co-ordinating Group compromising community representatives from Sub-Groups

Sub-Groups

Visitor Strategy, Community Housing, Attractions & Services & Youth Employment & The Services Transport Economy

Braemar Community

10 Actions, Partners & Timescales Community Action Plan

Key To Organisations & Partners

Item Abbreviation used Organisation

1. AC Aberdeenshire Council 2. BCC Braemar Community Council 3. BCL Braemar Community Limited 4. BRHS Braemar Royal Highland Society 5. BTG Braemar Tourist Group 6. BVH Braemar Village Hall 7. CBP Cairngorms Business Partnership 8. CHA Castleton Hall Association 9. CNPA Cairngorms National Park Authority 10. COAT Cairngorms Outdoor Access Trust 11. DDDP Deeside Donside Development Project 12. GFRS Grampian Fire & Rescue Service 13. HS Historic Scotland 14. IE Invercauld Estate 15. MAP Marr Area Partnership 16. ME Mar Estate 17. MLE 18. NTS National Trust for Scotland 19. PKC Perth & Kinross Council 20. RDCDMO Royal Deeside & Cairngorms Destination Management Organisation 21. RDP Royal Deeside Partnership 22. SE Scottish Enterprise 23. SEPA Scottish Environmental Protection Agency 24. SG Scottish Government 25. SNH Scottish Natural Heritage 26. SYHA Scottish Youth Hostel Association 27. UDAT Upper Deeside Access Trust 28. VS Visit Scotland

11 Action Plan Summary Community Action Plan Long-term Actions Develop the interpretation Develop of the collections, history of the collections, and context of the castle the to enhance and refresh Develop visitor experience. purpose-built a high quality, with Visitor Centre toilets and area, reception catering facilities. Establish a maintenance the future, for programme AC in collaboration with volunteers. and community Create new employment new Create opportunities as well as opportunities as well local for boosting revenues businesses.

Medium-term Actions Medium-term Branding. Visitor promotion. Signage Visitor promotion. and interpretation. enhance and Coordinate, visitor services.promote Develop the learning Develop experience the castle offers as schools as well through other educational establishments and special a Create groups. interest corporate for venue including entertainment, and small scale weddings and drama. music Stabilise and consolidate the access improve walls, (including disabled access), lighting and install feature material install interpretive signage in with directional the village. Develop proposals and proposals Develop funding strategy. Develop detailed, costed detailed, Develop plans, a funding strategy and plans, long-term governance probably arrangements, of a the creation through of trustees. board that to ensure initiatives car existing under-utilised into use. brought parks are Explore Deeside Way linked Way Deeside Explore Develop path to Ballater.

Short-termActions Establish the remit for an for Establish the remit inclusive steering group. inclusive Commission a study and work plan which define a duplication and avoids complements existing wider and national tourism regional strategies. recruited Volunteers covering: interpretation, covering: sales. shop and ticket administration, gardening, fund raising and marketing, The roof organisation. event Prepare repairs. also requires Plan. Castle Landscape Cut back vegetation. Form a Form Cut back vegetation. or Friends of Kindrochit among from Adoption group to look after the community the Castle in future. Funding has been provided CNPA. by Commission a feasibility study. A formal Feasibility Study Feasibility A formal (Iridescence & Tourism UK) Tourism (Iridescence & Appraisal and an Options been have (Simpson & Brown) commissioned. during 2013. introduced improvements to be improvements has already group A working to scope out been formed

Key Key Partners BTG, BCL, BCC , BRHS, BCC , BCL, BTG, CNPA, CBP, NTS, AC, VS, VS, AC, NTS, CBP, CNPA, retail, SYHA, RDCDMO, estates. hotels, BCL, IE, HS, volunteers. HS, IE, BCL,

AC, HS, CNPA. HS, AC, BRHS AC, BCC, BCL, CNPA, BRHS, CNPA, BCL, BCC, AC, HS, IE, MAP, NTS, SE, SE, NTS, MAP, IE, HS, Team, Project Voluntary University, Aberdeen Heritage Fund, Architectural Scottish Episcopal Church, Scottish Redundant Trust. Churches

BCC, BTG, CNPA, COAT, COAT, CNPA, BTG, BCC, SYHA. NTS, ME, IE,

Description To develop and promote an agreed plan to attract and meet plan to attract an agreed and promote develop To the expectations of visitors to the Braemar area, satisfying the expectations of visitors to Braemar area, the needs of those passing through as well as those choosing as those as well the needs of those passing through or longer. overnight to stay To conserve, improve and develop Braemar Castle as a Braemar Castle and develop improve conserve, To must-see visitor attraction. visitor attraction. must-see

To raise the profile of both Kindrochit Castle structures, Castle structures, of both Kindrochit profile raise the To explaining their historical significance. explaining their historical significance. To explore the opportunity to harness the Braemar explore To Gathering’s international reputation, creating a year-round a year-round creating international reputation, Gathering’s attraction. To restore the St Margaret’s Church building and develop it develop building and Church the St Margaret’s restore To as a hub for arts-related activities, enhancing Braemar as a enhancing Braemar activities, arts-related as a hub for tourist destination. To develop an interconnected network of footpaths around around of footpaths network an interconnected develop To the village, ensuring consistent signage, monitoring, monitoring, ensuring consistent signage, the village, maintenance and promotion. Title Braemar Visitor Braemar strategy Braemar Castle Visitor Centre & Kindrochit Castle Kindrochit Highland Games Heritage Centre Heritage Centre St Margaret’s Church network Footpath

Theme 1: Visitor Strategy, Attractions & Services Visitor Strategy, Theme 1: Item 1. 1.

2.

3. 4.

5. 5.

6.

12 Action Plan Summary Community Action Plan Long-term Actions Long-term Actions Completion of the Dee at to take Bridge is likely Further least 2 years. a connecting path plans for and to the east (Keiloch old Brig o’ Dee) along the be A93 may south of the developed. It is expected that this to completion. years project will require 2 to 3 will require project Move ownership of the ownership Move Sheiling locally.

Medium-term Actions Medium-term Actions Medium-term detailed design and Develop Golf Club of a new onsite Golf Club of a new tennis court. build programme. Support investigation by the by Support investigation

Short-termActions Short-termActions Scope the project in detail, Scope the project and surveys undertake a Planning prepare Comments from Application. being parties are interested collected via a Facebook will be Volunteers page. to raise needed in future awareness. of the results Await determine whether the can proceed. project Work with the Glenshee Work as well Association, Tourist as with the Ski Centre’s management. business Aberdeenshire community. to independent review and explore Repair roof Golf Club, targeted at the Golf Club, An email campaign by the An email campaign by renewable potential for Funding is heating system. available. now facilities. available Identify opportunities to of the integrate promotion Guide Shieling with other Link to Upper Deeside Learning Centre. Learning Centre. Commission needs assessment. Initiate new discussions to Initiate new review current service and current review needs.

Key Key Partners Key Partners BCL, CNPA, IE, ME, NTS, NTS, ME, IE, CNPA, BCL, SE, AC, SEPA, SNH, volunteers. CNPA. AC, DDDP, ME, BCL, BTG, BCC, Glenshee Ski BCC, BTG, Centre. the community. CHA, BVH, Club. BTG, BCC, Braemar Golf BCC, BTG, BCL, the Guides. BCL, RDP.

AC, the community. the community. AC,

Description Description To construct a footbridge over the River Dee and associated Dee and the River over a footbridge construct To scheme on the Corriemulzie hydro community build a To paths to connect with the existing network. To improve the improve To paths to connect with the existing network. Braemar to promote range of pedestrian and cycle routes for being a hub as a sustainable visitor destination by walking and cycling. To explore an integrated approach to visitor management, to visitor management, an integrated approach explore To available with income generated made Estate, Burn on Mar kitted-out, sufficiently that both halls are ensure To local projects. for attracting visitors for Braemar and the Ski Centre. visitors for attracting building visitor numbers partner with Braemar Golf Club, To and utilised to serve the community promoted maintained, through new joint marketing initiatives. joint marketing new through and, as appropriate, visitors. as appropriate, and, the wider the benefit of use of the building for increase To adult learning identify and meet the demands for To community. Operated by the Guide Association (there is no Association (there the Guide Operated by community. the Shieling hosts Scout Girl Guide Pack in Braemar), age of 5. the and girls from boys Association meetings for

opportunities to benefit local people. To ensure that appropriate recycling, composting, uplift and composting, recycling, that appropriate ensure To snowplough facilities are in place to serve local businesses facilities are snowplough and residents, thereby helping to reduce Braemar’s carbon Braemar’s helping to reduce thereby and residents, footprint. Title Title Dee footbridge Corriemulzie Glenshee Ski Hydro Braemar Centre Centre Braemar Golf Club Village Hall & Castleton Hall Guide Shieling Adult learning classes Recycling, Recycling, composting, composting, snow-clearing snow-clearing and refuse and refuse

Theme 1: Visitor Strategy, Attractions & Services (continued) Visitor Strategy, Theme 1: Item Transport Services & Facilities, Community Theme 2: Item 7. 1. 8. 2. 9. 3. 4.

5.

13 Action Plan Summary Community Action Plan Long-term Actions Medium-term Actions Medium-term Provide the facilities that Provide people want to young engaged. remain they ensure the fountains. Restore sponsorship obtained to and will be meet their costs, in place during 2013. New noticeboards have noticeboards New with been developed, Collaborate with the Short-termActions young people about what young Youth a want from they Funding plan to be Club. investigated. Youth trained in emergency services and the First local GP to promote Responders in the village. already have Volunteers Consult with Development. park drainage play Review village. To explore funding explore To opportunities and local non-personal assistance for example shopping, (for care cleaning and cooking). laundry, and including the Golf Club, potential sources research of funding. Review and equipment. in the general landscaping Identify potential partners, Identify potential partners, meetings to initiate Joint dialogue with all agencies and bus company. service express from Bus with Marr Forum. Address potential for Address potential demand Investigate and viability meet with potential providers.

AC, BCC, CNPA, NTS. CNPA, BCC, AC, the local GP. BCC, Key Partners

Learning & Community AC volunteers. Development, the community. BCC, AC, the community GP, AC, Club. AC, BCC, Braemar Golf BCC, AC, PKC, CNPA, BCC, AC, Nestrans. BCC, AC, bus companies. AC, BCC, bus CNPA, BCC, AC, companies.

noticeboards are in place to help inform local residents and local residents in place to help inform are noticeboards and local meetings. events visitors of news, To explain how the existing services available meet the the existing services explain how available To To ensure that well-sited, well-designed and durable and durable well-designed that well-sited, ensure To Description

emergency health care needs of Braemar, and how they are are they and how needs of Braemar, emergency health care Aboyne The Shieling for Club in Youth a re-establish To accessed. Club will be held Youth It is intended that the pupils. Academy with the possibility to extend fortnightly during term time, the year. it throughout village. To ensure that the play park contains appropriate play play park contains appropriate that the play ensure To To ensure the elderly and vulnerable have the best chance to and vulnerable have the elderly ensure To for environment and stimulating a safe providing equipment, that general to ensure Also, in the village. children and well-maintained. in the village is attractive landscaping remain for as long as possible in their own home. as long possible in their own for remain of building a tennis court the feasibility in investigate To a bus service secure serving the South, Braemar from To Braemar. opening up new opportunities to bring visitors to the village, opportunitiesopening up new the village, to bring visitors as well as servingas well the needs of Braemar residents. To secure additional bus services, including an express including an express bus services, additional secure To a shuttle service the village to these from provide To service, from Braemar to the North. from service, popular tourist features. Emergency Noticeboards Title health care health care club Youth Play park, parks park, Play Care in the Care and landscaping community Sports Bus links to the south Aberdeen Links to Shuttle to Linn of Quoich and Linn of Dee

7. Theme 2: Community Facilities, Services & Transport (continued) Transport Services & Facilities, Community Theme 2: 6. People Young Theme 3: Item

1. 2. 8. 9. 10.

11. 12.

14 Action Plan Summary Community Action Plan Long-term Actions Medium-term Actions Medium-term additional space through a space through additional collaborating further survey, if with potential partners, to bring on new required, Gauge demand for Investigate District Heating Investigate for by, powered schemes, or local woodchips example, heat pumps. ground-source

Short-termActions Meet with affordable to assess housing providers options demand and likely Input to development. for allocation policy through Local Development the new Plan. update and publish a regular on space becoming available. accommodation in Braemar Audit all business unit to group Establish a working gauge demand, identify gauge demand, existing training available, new and promote opportunities. Set up meetings with key infrastructure providers to providers infrastructure determine what achievable are improvements might be they and how funded. Assess relevant schemes and Assess relevant integrate their promotion. discounted Investigate of purchasing community energy.

Key Key Partners AC, CNPA, IE, ME, ME, IE, CNPA, AC, Castlehill Housing Association. units.

AC, IE, ME, BCC. ME, IE, AC, IE, CNPA, BTG, BCC, AC, ME, NTS, local tradesmen NTS, ME, and businesses. AC, BCC, CNPA, SG, SG, CNPA, BCC, AC, the community.

AC, BCC, SG, energy SG, BCC, AC, the community. providers,

Description Description To ensure that there is sufficient appropriate affordable affordable appropriate is sufficient that there ensure To Sheep and Highland Cattle could complement the Castle as an attraction. of Braemar Castle. in the grounds including a mock-up illicit still, Build a Black House, housing to match demand. The village survey confirmed that a swimming pool, for use by the Braemar community and visitors, would serve as a significant visitor attraction and popular local amenity. would serve as a significant visitor attraction and popular local amenity. and visitors, by the Braemar community for use swimming pool, confirmed that a The village survey To ensure that there are sufficient business units to meet sufficient business units are that there ensure To required, skills are employment identify what additional To Braemar’s needs and promote their availability. needs and promote Braemar’s Stage star-gazing events over the winter months to bring in additional revenue to the village. Achieving accredited Dark Sky status would open up additional promotional opportunities. promotional open up additional Dark Sky status would accredited Achieving to the village. revenue to bring in additional the winter months over events Stage star-gazing

such as customer care training, and develop a delivery plan. and develop training, care such as customer infrastructure that the local communications ensure To delivers the best possible service the business and delivers for community.

To improve energy efficiency, reduce heating bills by reduce heating bills energy efficiency, improve To exploring schemes such as The Green Deal, and make and make Deal, The Green exploring schemes such as and to local residents and assistance available information businesses. Title Title Affordable housing Affordable Black House Swimming pool Business units Skills training for Dark Skies status employment Mobile signal, Mobile signal, broadband and broadband radio reception radio reception Energy efficiency

Theme 4: Housing, Employment & The Economy & Employment Housing, Theme 4: Item Other Projects Item 1. 1. 1. 1. 2. 2. 2. 3. 3. 3.

4.

5.

15 Making It Real CommunityCommunity Action Action Plan Plan

This booklet is one of a series up detailed action plans to views at the time of the latest produced by Local Rural implement the top priorities consultation, and that it will have Partnerships for a number of as well as addressing the to be regularly reviewed and communities in Aberdeenshire. other issues which have been updated. As some projects are identified. For each priority or completed, other issues will arise This initiative is sponsored by issue this will involve agreeing and take their place in future Aberdeenshire Community who should be involved, what versions of the community plan. Planning Partnership and run resources will be needed and by Aberdeenshire Local Rural target dates for completion. It is We recommend that this Plan Partnerships. The aim is to hoped that this process will be has a maximum life of three provide community action plans driven by representatives of the years. in an attractive, easy to read, community with support - moral, professionally printed format. technical and financial - from the The development of this relevant Partners. Community Action Plan has This information can now guide been further supported and the community and Community It is important that this booklet sponsored by the Cairngorms Planning Partners in drawing is seen by all concerned as an National Park Authority. account of the community’s

Thanks are due to all the individuals and organisations who contributed to the development of Braemar’s first Community Action Plan.

For questions about this document or to make suggestions about implementation of the plan please e-mail: [email protected]

Marr Area Partnership

- 01261 851051 May 2013 Gellan Cottage • Coull • Aboyne • AB34 5JU T: 013398 87577 • E: [email protected] • W: www.marrareapartnership.org.uk creativedesign

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