This is the Community Plan for Kincardine & Mearns. It sets out the Kincardine & Mearns Community Planning Group’s main actions for the next four years. If you have difficulty understanding this document and require a translation, or would like a copy in a larger print, please contact the Kincardine & Mearns Area Manager, on 01569 768200.

Cover photograph – Laurencekirk © Aberdeenshire Council

Contents

Aberdeenshire Community Planning Partnership...... 2 Kincardine & Mearns Community Plan 2010 – 2014...... 4

1 Purpose of the Kincardine & Mearns Community Plan. . . . 6 2 The Kincardine & Mearns Area...... 12 3 Aims and Objectives...... 16 4 Recent Achievements...... 17 5 Timetable...... 26 6 Actions and Priorities ...... 27 A Community Wellbeing...... 27 B Jobs and the Economy ...... 38 C Lifelong Learning...... 43 D Sustainable Environment...... 47 E Developing Our Partnership...... 53 7 How Are We Doing?...... 56

KINCARDINE & MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN 2010 – 2014 1 Aberdeenshire Community Planning Partnership

Our vision is: Working together for the best quality of life for everyone in Aberdeenshire. Our Principles

The partnership has developed six guiding principles, which we will use to test everything that we do. If something that we are planning as a partnership does not fit with these principles then we should not be doing it.

The principles are:

Inclusion We will ensure that our actions improve all Aberdeenshire citizens’ ability to access our services and will take account of all factors that create a barrier to this. We will do all that we can to ensure equal opportunities and will meet all national requirements on these.

Accountability We will make ourselves answerable to the communities and people of Aberdeenshire and keep them informed of, and seek their views on, what we are doing.

Partnership We will work together with our partners and the people of Aberdeenshire to achieve our vision and will encourage communities to recognise their important role in sharing in community planning work.

Evidence-based We will ensure that our actions are based on clear evidence and information and are derived from what the community wants.

Sustainability We will work to ensure that our actions meet the needs of the KINCARDINE & current generation without compromising the ability of future MEARNS generations to meet their own needs.

COMMUNITY Efficiency We will aim to be as efficient as possible with resources and use PLAN them to provide as effective services as possible. 2010 – 2014 2 Commitment to Equalities

Community planning involves working with all communities in Aberdeenshire. The Aberdeenshire Community Planning Partnership is aware that certain groups or individuals may be more disadvantaged or vulnerable for reasons such as age, disability, gender, race or ethnicity, religious or political beliefs or sexual orientation. We will strive to improve the quality of life for all people of Aberdeenshire and will do all that we can to ensure equal opportunities.

Equalities Schemes

Public bodies have a number of legal duties laid upon them in relation to various aspects of equality. A number of our partners have schemes in place. • Aberdeenshire Council Equalities Scheme • Grampian Fire and Rescue Service Race Equality Scheme, Gender Equality Scheme and Disability Equality Scheme • Grampian Police Single Equality Scheme • Nestrans Equality Scheme • NHS Grampian Race Equality Scheme and Disability Equality Scheme • Scottish Enterprise Equality Scheme • Skills Development Scotland Equality Scheme

Community Engagement

Aberdeenshire Community Planning Partnership has adopted a Community Engagement Strategy. The aim of the strategy is to support strong, active and inclusive communities that are both informed and involved in decision making. The strategy is also aimed at enabling partners to improve public services to enhance the quality of life for the residents of Aberdeenshire. The full document is available on the Community Planning website: www.ouraberdeenshire.org.uk/library

KINCARDINE & MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN 2010 – 2014 3 Kincardine & Mearns Community Plan 2010 – 2014

Welcome to the second community plan for Kincardine and Mearns, covering the period 2010-2014. This document has been developed in partnership to set out what public and voluntary sector service providers and community groups intend to do to improve quality of life in the area. The actions contained within the plan respond to the concerns and aspirations expressed by our communities.

The vision of the Aberdeenshire Community Planning Partnership is: working together for the best quality of life for everyone in Aberdeenshire.

This partnership comes together locally as the Kincardine and Mearns Community Planning Group. We are enthusiastic that this plan goes a long way towards achieving our vision. The group includes representatives from Community Councils, Kincardine and Mearns Area Partnership, Council of Voluntary Services, Grampian Police, Grampian Fire and Rescue Service, NHS Grampian and Aberdeenshire Council and also calls on other partners such as NESTRANS and Scottish Enterprise. Volunteers play an essential part in this process.

Many communities have now actively embraced Community Planning and have carried out, with support from the partners, community engagement activities to help us get a clear understanding of the issues that are important locally. Over the period of this plan we hope to strengthen the level of community engagement so that we are truly all working together for the best quality of life in the area. This will provide opportunities for volunteers to be involved both in identifying issues affecting their community and developing and implementing solutions. Over time we expect that we will be able to show measurable and demonstrable outcomes.

Some of the actions in the plan may seem largely aspirational. It is possible that there will be little movement towards delivering such actions during the life of the Plan. However it is important that we do not lose sight of them. By approaching them step by step, year by year, great improvements can be made to our infrastructure, facilities and services all contributing to the quality of your life.

The door is always open for your comments and ideas. Please do not hesitate to get in touch by phone, email or letter if there is anything that you wish to raise. It is important to recognise the valuable input of communities, voluntary organisations and employees KINCARDINE & of the different public and voluntary service providers who work MEARNS in partnership to make things happen. COMMUNITY William Munro PLAN Area Manager, Kincardine and Mearns 2010 – 2014 Aberdeenshire Council 4 KINCARDINE & MEARNS LOCAL COMMUNITY PLAN 2008 – 2012 5 1 Purpose of the Kincardine & Mearns Community Plan

This document provides you with outline information on intended developments and aspirations for Kincardine and Mearns. The action points included will be led both by the major service providers and by the communities themselves. This plan will give you a clear picture of our combined vision for the area over the next four years. It is drawn up by the Kincardine and Mearns Community Planning Group which is made up of community planning partners including; Aberdeenshire Council, Grampian Fire & Rescue Service, NHS Grampian, Grampian Police, Kincardine and Mearns Area Partnership, Council for Voluntary Service Aberdeenshire (Central and South) and a representative of Community Councils in the area. It is commented on by Aberdeenshire Council’s Kincardine and Mearns Area Committee and has been subject to public consultation.

The actions identified in the Plan reflect contact and dialogue with local communities, community groups, organisations and individuals. Findings from a number of community engagements have helped to influence and shape the Plan.

Community engagements • Aberdeenshire Council Residents Survey Survey of a representative group of Aberdeenshire residents by Aberdeenshire Council • Ageing Well Report October 2008 Aberdeenshire wide event with the aim of improving services for older people • Citizens Panel 2009 Data The Citizens Panel was set up by the Aberdeenshire Community Planning Partnership and consists of a panel of 1200 residents of Aberdeenshire who have agreed to serve on the panel for a fixed period and to be consulted on various issues. • Dynamic Drop In 2007 Kincardine and Mearns wide consultation held in Stonehaven and organised by the Community Planning Group • Dynamic Drop In 2009 Kincardine and Mearns wide consultation held in Portlethen and organised by the Community Planning Group KINCARDINE & • Mearns Youth Consultation 2009 MEARNS Consultation of young people in the Mearns area carried out by the Mearns Youth Forum COMMUNITY • MRI Harbour Day Consultation 2009 PLAN Small public consultation carried out at the MRI Harbour Day in Stonehaven 2010 – 2014 6 • Older People’s Consultations 2009 Two small consultations carried out by Community Planning Officers with the help of the Mearns and Coastal Healthy Living network • Planning for Real in Arbuthnott 2008 Community consultation organised by Community Council • Planning for Real in Auchenblae 2008 Community consultation organised by community group • Planning for Real in St Cyrus 2008 Community consultation organised by Community Council • Planning for Real in Newtonhill, Muchalls and Cammachmore 2009 Community consultation organised by Community Council • Portlethen Parks Group consultation 2009 Consultation in Portlethen carried out, in questionnaire form, by Portlethen Parks Group • Stonehaven 2020 Consultation organised and carried out by Stonehaven Community Council • With Inclusion In Mind events 2010 Events (one in Portlethen and two in Laurencekirk) held with the aim of improving services for people with learning disabilities and mental health problems in our area.

KINCARDINE & MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN

Mearns Youth Consultation Johnshaven Primary School Homecoming Artwork 2010 – 2014 7 These consultations have involved great partnership working but none would have been possible without the enormous contribution made by people living in our area and the many volunteers who organised and ran events, collated feedback and followed up concerns on behalf of their communities. The information drawn from these engagements has highlighted issues that residents of Kincardine and Mearns would like to see addressed: • Better communication of information about existing services, activities and provision/opportunities available to all community members • Extend valued social care services • Call for more flexible, affordable and accessible public transport • Need for more affordable housing suitable for first time home makers and older people • Problem of dog fouling, littering and vandalism • Safer routes to school needed in some communities • Speeding a problem across the area • Need to improve play facilities and investigate solutions for lighting in some parks • Need for local, sustainable childcare options particularly in the rural areas • Interest in improving some of the school buildings in the area • Improved facilities and activities accessible to all young people in Kincardine and Mearns

KINCARDINE & MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN

2010 – 2014 Drumtochty Glen The Harbour at Gourdon 8 • Desire to protect, enhance and provide green and open spaces as well as paths • Desire for sustainable, locally driven projects such as community composting and allotment schemes

There are actions within this plan which address all of these concerns. Where there is a link between any individual action and one or more of the community engagements listed above, this is made clear under “Action Origin”.

One of the actions within this document is to develop a plan for community engagement in the area to ensure that we engage as effectively as possible with our communities. Through this strategy we hope that as clear a picture as possible will emerge of the needs of all those living in our area. This will ensure an even closer fit between community needs and future community plans.

Some of the actions in the Plan are aspirational and reflect community, area committee, or partner desires but no resources have yet been identified to carry them out. If they cannot be resourced over a period of time they may require to be removed from future plans.

KINCARDINE & MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN

Sunrise near Drumoak Badentoy Business Park, Portlethen 2010 – 2014 9 An explanatory list of acronyms and abbreviations used in the plan in alphabetical order

Acronym or Term in full abbreviation AC Aberdeenshire Council ACP Aberdeenshire Childcare Partnership ADP Alcohol and Drugs Partnership ALI Anti Litter Initiative ALP Adult Learning Partnership AMT Area Management Team, Aberdeenshire Council ARI Aberdeen Royal Infirmary CAB Citizens Advice Bureau CDG Community Development Group CLD Community Learning and Development (Aberdeenshire Council) COMET Community Outreach Mobile Education Training CP Community Planning CPO Community Planning Officer CPP Community Planning Partnership CSN Community Schools Network CSP Community Safety Partnership CVSA (C & S) Council for Voluntary Services Aberdeenshire, Central and South DDI Dynamic Drop In DRT Demand responsive transport EKOS Economic and Social Development Consultancy ELL Education, Learning and Leisure, Aberdeenshire Council EU European Union GP Grampian Police GFRS Grampian Fire and Rescue Service KINCARDINE & ICT Information and Communication Technologies MEARNS JHIP Joint Health Improvement Plan COMMUNITY K & M Kincardine and Mearns PLAN KDAF Kincardine and Deeside Arts Forum KMAP Kincardine and Mearns Area Partnership 2010 – 2014 10 LAG Local Action Group LCPG Local Community Planning Group LL&L Lifelong learning and leisure MAP Mearns Area Partnership M & CHLN Mearns and Coastal Healthy Living Network MCA Maritime and Coastguard Agency MRI Maritime Rescue Institute NEAT North East Arts Touring NESTRANS North East Scotland Transport Partnership NHSG National Health Service Grampian OSCR Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator P & E Planning and Environmental PCALS Portlethen Community Anti Litter Scheme PfR Planning for Real RNLI Royal National Lifeboat Institution RYA Royal Yachting Association SAB Scheme Support for Aberdeenshire Business Scheme SCA Scottish Childminding Association SCARF Save Cash Reduce Fuel SCVO Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations SEAS Sustainable Energy Association Stonehaven SHQS Scottish Housing Quality Standards SLA Service Level Agreement SW Social Work STP Stonehaven Town Partnership SRDP Scottish Rural Development Programme TraM Transition Mearns T & I Transportation and Infrastructure VCA Volunteer Centre, Aberdeenshire VIO Volunteer Involving Organisations KINCARDINE & WEA Workers Educational Association MEARNS WIM With Inclusion In Mind COMMUNITY WM Waste Management PLAN 2010 – 2014 11 2 The Kincardine & Mearns Area

2.1 The land area of Kincardine and Mearns is 756 sq km (292 miles), representing 12% of the area covered by Aberdeenshire Council. Population density 54 persons per sq km (compared with Aberdeenshire density of 37 per sq km). Kincardine and Mearns is defined by 59 km of dramatic coastline to the east, and the foothills of the Grampian Mountains to the west. The area is diverse; in the north, proximity to Aberdeen has encouraged considerable development of population and industry. The southern part contains the rich farmland of the Mearns, northeast Scotland’s greatest resource of prime agricultural land, and a series of attractive former fishing villages.

2.2 Based on 2001 census data, the population of Kincardine and Mearns is 40,437 and is growing slowly over the period to 2011, although slightly slower than the average rate for Aberdeenshire overall, but nowhere near the growth rates of the last 20 years. In contrast to past growth, which was concentrated close to Aberdeen, projections show a more even pattern, with the Mearns area also gaining population. Being identified as a strategic growth corridor in the new Structure Plan will lead to a faster rate of growth. Major towns are Stonehaven (10,794), Portlethen (6,748), Newtonhill (3,083), Inverbervie (2,027) and Laurencekirk (1,971).

2.3 The age profile contains a higher representation of younger age groups than other areas administered by Aberdeenshire Council or Scotland, reflecting recent employment driven immigration.

2.4 The economy is closely linked to Aberdeen, particularly in the north of the area, and is similarly influenced by the performance of the oil and gas sector. In the south, a more traditional rural economy exists, where issues such as Common Agricultural Policy reform and rising fuel taxes are of great significance. In recent years, the closure of Gourdon Mills, together with declining fish quotas, has adversely affected economic activity in the southern part of the area, although growth has occurred in Portlethen and Stonehaven where a new business centre has recently opened.

2.5 Main employers are McIntosh Donald Ltd, (meat processors); Asda Stores Ltd (supermarket retailers); Baker Hughes Inteq (oil services suppliers); BJ Services Co Ltd (oil services); Cooper Cameron (UK) Ltd (drilling contractors); Hunting Oilfield Services (International) Ltd (oil KINCARDINE & services); Macphie of Glenbervie Ltd (food processors), Aberdeenshire Council and NHS MEARNS Grampian (various locations). COMMUNITY 2.6 Tourism is relatively important. Although large numbers of visitors traverse the area on PLAN the A90 trunk road, there is little large-scale tourist related development in Kincardine and Mearns. The development of coastal routes may bring economic benefits to the former 2010 – 2014 12 fishing villages. The A92 has been designated a National Tourist Route, and Nortrail a national cycle and walking route runs from St Cyrus northwards along the coast. ‘Stonehaven…it’s Special’ is promoting the town’s appeal, based on its diverse built heritage, landscape setting, many events and attractions. Among the most prominent visitor attractions are Dunnottar Castle and Stonehaven open-air swimming pool. The farming heritage of the Mearns and the cultural legacy of author Lewis Grassic Gibbon present further opportunities as does the gateway to the Cairngorm National Park, accessed from the Grampian Hills in the most southern part of Kincardine & Mearns.

2.7 Services and facilities are concentrated on Stonehaven which is the area’s main service centre offering a wide range of services and facilities. Other important service centres include Portlethen, Laurencekirk and Inverbervie. The area has three secondary schools, 24 primary schools and three Community Learning Centres. Public facilities include three swimming pools and six libraries. In common with other parts of Aberdeenshire, the number of key facilities (shops, post offices, primary schools, petrol stations and doctors surgeries) in rural areas has fallen with a reduction of 26% since 1981.

2.8 The travel to work pattern (from 2001 Census results by settlement and electoral ward) indicates that Kincardine and Mearns, particularly in the north, is closely integrated with the Aberdeen economy. High proportions of the working population commute to Aberdeen (64% in Portlethen, 47% in Stonehaven). Aberdeenshire Council is promoting the development of a cross-rail service between Stonehaven and Aberdeen/Inverurie.

KINCARDINE & MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN

Coast and farmland Stonehaven harbour 2010 – 2014 13 2.9 Unemployment is relatively low although there are localised pockets. There are an estimated 137 unemployed persons in the Area (Office for National Statistics, March 2008). This represents an unemployment rate of 0.6%. The highest rate is in Inverbervie, Gourdon and Johnshaven (0.9%).

2.10 Housing is taking place with an average of around 250 new dwellings having been built annually in Kincardine and Mearns over the last five years, roughly 18% of the Aberdeenshire total in this period. 56% of this development took place in Stonehaven. Laurencekirk, Newtonhill and Portlethen together accommodated a further 22% of new houses. There was a considerable amount of development outwith defined settlements (around 235 units over the five years). 67% of the housing stock is owner occupied, which is slightly lower than the figure for Aberdeenshire as a whole (71%), with 15% rented from the local authority or a housing association, 10% rented privately and the remainder consisting of other tenures.

2.11 Industrial development over the last five years has seen an average of around 4.5 hectares per annum of land developed on designated industrial estates in Kincardine and Mearns, roughly 31% of the Aberdeenshire total over this period. Over 95% of this development was at Badentoy, Portlethen. In terms of future developments, the area has just over 51 hectares of marketable industrial land, although only 10 hectares is immediately available for development. The marketable land is located primarily in Portlethen with smaller areas in Stonehaven, Newtonhill, Gourdon and Laurencekirk.

KINCARDINE & MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN

2010 – 2014 Fruit of the sea, Kincardine & Mearns Farmland, Kincardine & Mearns 14 2.12 Future challenges to be addressed by the Council and its partners are the dependence upon Aberdeen for employment and services in the context of potential change to the oil industry, the requirement to accommodate continuing population and household growth, the need to promote a diverse economy, and to realise the area’s tourism potential. There is also a need to provide affordable housing, to sustain social and commercial facilities in the area’s villages, and protect the area’s unique built and natural heritage. The planned Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route, now with a spur to Stonehaven will greatly increase accessibility. Another challenge to be considered is the changing demographic profile. The proportion of the population aged 65 and over is projected to increase by around 2501 over the next 10 years. Other important challenges are those posed by climate change including the need to reduce our carbon footprint.

2.13 The Community Planning Partners have a presence throughout the Area. The main Council Base is in Stonehaven but there are Social Work staff bases in Portlethen and Laurencekirk, and of course Council staff presence through teachers and school staff in Academies in Portlethen, Stonehaven and Laurencekirk and primaries in virtually all communities. Community Learning and Development staff are based in or near the Academies. There are G.P. surgeries and clinics in Portlethen, Stonehaven, Laurencekirk, Inverbervie, and Auchenblae with the Kincardine Community Hospital in Stonehaven. There is a main Police Station in Stonehaven and also stations in Portlethen and Laurencekirk. Fire stations exist in Stonehaven, Laurencekirk and Inverbervie all of which are a retained service. At the edges of the Area, some services are received from out with the Kincardine and Mearns Area e.g. Portlethen is served by the Altens Fire Station, Drumoak by Banchory and some health services are accessed in the Tayside Health Area to the south or out with Kincardine and Mearns in Banchory. School catchments lead to some pupils of Kincardine and Mearns feeding to Banchory Academy in Marr and to Cults Academy in Aberdeen City.

There are twelve Community Councils in Kincardine and Mearns and a range of Community and Village Associations, Stonehaven has a Business Association. Stonehaven Town Partnership has formed as a community based partnership bringing together voluntary groups based in the town. Community Groups can come together under the umbrella of the Kincardine and Mearns Area Partnership and are encouraged to be members of the Partnership, which is seen as an important conduit between service providing agencies and the community on the Community Planning Group. Mearns Area Partnership takes a multi-agency approach to addressing rural disadvantage and identified needs by working KINCARDINE & with local people to devise local solutions. MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN 2010 – 2014 15 3 Aims and Objectives

The Kincardine and Mearns Community Plan aims to develop the Community Partners vision of working together for the best quality of life for everyone in Aberdeenshire at a more local level by providing an environment whereby the various communities in Kincardine and Mearns can flourish and be sustainable in terms of economy, environment, safety and social aspect. It aims to deliver services which best meet the local need.

Objectives in the Kincardine and Mearns Community Plan reflect the five themes identified in the Community Plan for Aberdeenshire. These are Community Wellbeing, Jobs and the Economy, Lifelong Learning, Sustainable Environment and Developing our Partnership. It is important that there is a quality of opportunity for all residents in Kincardine and Mearns.

Actions are identified within each of the theme objectives. These will reflect both national and Aberdeenshire / Grampian wide initiatives but also important issues that have been raised through engagement with the community. The Scottish Government has introduced a Single Outcome Agreement, which sets out the aspirations to focus Government and Public Services on creating a more successful country, with opportunities for all of Scotland to flourish, through increasing sustainable economic growth. The strategic objectives are to be wealthier and fairer, healthier, safer and stronger, smarter, greener. These high level objectives filter through the Single Outcome Agreement to specify actions and outcomes at a local level. The Kincardine and Mearns Community Plan will try to reflect these and will be refined at its next review accordingly.

In order to achieve the theme objectives and to ensure outcomes to improve the quality of life for people in Kincardine and Mearns, it is essential that a culture of cross service and partnership working within and across all the service providing agencies both public, voluntary and where appropriate private, is adopted and strengthened. There is a good history of such working in Kincardine and Mearns and a great deal of enthusiasm amongst those involved to this way of working.

The Community Planning Structure has been in place for a few years now and was refined following the review of Community Planning in Aberdeenshire in 2006. In Kincardine and Mearns the Community Planning Group meets on a regular basis to review feedback from community engagement, review progress against the Community Plan and to develop and promote initiatives to tackle issues, improve services and improve the quality of life KINCARDINE & for everyone in the area. MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN 2010 – 2014 16 4 Recent Achievements

A selection of achievements for the period covered by the previous local community plan, 2008 – 2010 are listed below. As this is a community plan, it identifies community as well as agency or partnership achievements particularly where community effort has been supported by agency activity or funding. A lot of these achievements have come about through the efforts of volunteers in the community.

A Community Wellbeing • Affordable Housing projects completed to address identified housing needs: June 2009 Laurencekirk – Completion of 9 units for rent July 2009 Stonehaven – Completion of 6 units for Low Cost Home Ownership October 2009 Portlethen – Completion of 18 units for LIFT and 32 properties for rent. November 2009 Inverbervie – Completion of 5 units for Low Cost Home Ownership December 2009 Marykirk – Completion of 6 units for Low Cost Home Ownership • Three Momentum courses have been delivered to young people, increasing awareness of road safety and responsible driving. These are run by Community Learning and Development staff in partnership with Grampian Police and have successfully created links with local businesses, even leading to an employment opportunity. • Mearns Area Partnership is piloting FARE, a local food delivery service in four Momentum course 2009 settlements without a village shop. • Community Service contributed to a number of projects in the K & M area in 2009/2010 KINCARDINE & including the clearing up of debris following the flooding in Stonehaven, the creation MEARNS of a new path for the Scouts at the Mill of Forest, the painting of the village halls in Inverbervie and Portlethen and a beach clean up in Gourdon and Stonehaven. COMMUNITY PLAN 2010 – 2014 17 B Jobs and the Economy • Aberdeenshire Council provides the Support for Aberdeenshire Business (SAB) grant and loan scheme across Aberdeenshire. From April 2008 to February 2010, funding was awarded to seven businesses in Kincardine and Mearns, a total of £32,134. This helped to create new jobs and sustain existing ones. • A grant of £9,300 was provided to the Bettridge Centre, Newtonhill through Aberdeenshire Council’s Community Asset Fund which assists community groups to create assets which will generate ongoing income. • Between May 2008 and February 2010, six grants totalling £119,830 have been awarded through the Rural Aberdeenshire LEADER programme for projects in Kincardine & Mearns • The Council’s Rural Partnership Fund assists local rural partnerships to provide support to community economic development in their areas and to be active participants in community planning. Total awards approved in the area for 2009/2010 were £18,000 for Kincardine and Mearns Area Partnership and £10,500 for the Mearns Area Partnership. • The Council continues to expand its work on employability. The Working for Families project has helped many families with multiple barriers to work to reach goals of employment or training including 36 clients in Kincardine and Mearns. • In May 2009 Laurencekirk Station was reopened. Passenger demand has exceeded expectations by 80% and current projections are that 65,000 passengers will use the station in its first year of operation. Villages in Control played a key role in spearheading the successful campaign on behalf of the community to reopen the station. • The Community Learning and Development staff along with partners from Education have successfully supported young people leaving school with no destination. Young people have either gained employment or gone onto further education courses. Local staff have also run confidence/skill building sessions for identified young people. • Aberdeenshire Council in partnership with Stonehaven Town Partnership was successful in its bid to the Town Centre Regeneration Fund and was awarded £181,500 towards upgrading Stonehaven Town Hall. • The Dickson Hall Trust, CLD and the Area Manager put in a successful bid for the refurbishment of the Dickson Hall and old ‘posties path’ in Laurencekirk. The money will see the hall upgraded to become DDA compliant, open a fairtrade cafe and facilities KINCARDINE & to support the recently opened railway station. Accommodation will be available for MEARNS seminars and also for local business to use that facility. A steering group has been set up to promote the use of the hall as a Mearns arts centre. COMMUNITY PLAN 2010 – 2014 18 • Stonehaven Tourism Group has produced a Walking Map to be launched in 2010 which provides detailed visitor information on the many walks available in and around the town and links to longer distance footpaths. A lot of hard work from group members and other volunteers has gone into the creation of the map with VisitScotland providing advice to the group and funding coming from KMAP and Aberdeenshire Council.

Front cover of the C Lifelong Learning new Walking Map for Stonehaven • Dunnottar Castle is an important and iconic visitor attraction which is visited by 40,000 people annually, but the site does not have adequate visitor facilities at present. Aberdeenshire Council in partnership with Scottish Enterprise and the owner, contributed to the Dunnottar Castle Visitor Centre Feasibility Study which identifies the potential and preferred options for a visitor centre. The results are being considered by the castle’s owner. • The Council supported Homecoming Scotland 2009. Thirteen Kincardine and Mearns events have been promoted as a part of Homecoming including The Yellow’s on the Broom, Inverbervie, Heritage Fairs in Laurencekirk and Stonehaven, the 75th Anniversary of Stonehaven Open Air Pool and the Under the Influence of Robbie Burns at Arbuthnott, and Stonehaven Fireballs and Open Air in the Square celebrations and a new community choir, the Burns Quoir, has been established and is going from strength to strength after the Homecoming is past. • St Ternans Episcopal Church, Muchalls and Friends of Cookney Hall were successful in achieving Landfill Tax Awards for hall improvements. Arbuthnott Community Association was also successful and received a Landtax award for car park improvements at the Grassic Gibbon Centre. • Fourdon underpass project. Grampian Police, Arts Development and Community Learning KINCARDINE & and Development, Aberdeenshire Council and MEARNS the Fordoun community recognised issues around community safety and vandalism and COMMUNITY worked together to transform an underpass PLAN

Fordoun Underpass as it was 2010 – 2014 19 from a target for vandals to a Gallery Under the Road. A 55 metre artwork for the underpass wall inspired by the local heritage and landscape was created. As well as an improved environment, seven young people gained Dynamic Youth Awards and a range of community organisations have become involved in shaping a community profile. • Young people in the Mearns investigated “how it is to live in Fordoun Underpass now the Mearns” through a youth consultation. This has resulted in local action which includes a music media project funded by cash back for communities (£5373) and the increased availability of contraception locally. Young people are also stating that they feel their views are now listened to. This work is supported by Community Learning and Development staff. • The Mearns Youth Consultation also identified a need for increased youth information. A K & M pocket guide was designed and produced. This was lead by Community Learning and Development and supported by the LCPG. • Community Learning and Development staff used the COMET van to deliver learning opportunities in isolated communities. Although this has mainly been used for youth work, it has also been used for adult learning classes and as a tool in community consultations. The Comet has been supported by the LCPG. • A youth facility in Portlethen has been established. The “Portycabin” is managed by the Portlethen Youth Action team. Their input into the local community has been recognised through winning a BT “Seen and Heard” award for involvement and participation in the local community. • North Kincardine CDG in partnership with SALT Festival ran a successful art competition for the local community. The aim was to encourage participation in visual arts locally. KINCARDINE & • There was a successful Acoustic Youth Stage MEARNS event held in the Beach Pavilion, Stonehaven as part of the Stonehaven Folk Festival 2009. It COMMUNITY involved young musicians from communities PLAN across K & M. Funding was given from the local CDG to commission artwork depicting 2010 – 2014 Acoustic Youth Stage 20 positive messages and images of young people and acoustic music. This artwork was converted to backdrops for the stage area at the event. • In 2008/2009, Nor th East Arts Touring (NEAT) w o r k i n g w i t h l o c a l volunteer promoters staged eleven shows in four venues across K & M with a total audience of 744 people. Local promoters also had the opportunity Johnshaven Village Hall, a NEAT venue to take part in a free audience development training through the new Growing Audiences North East (GANE) initiative created in partnership with Aberdeenshire Arts Development, Aberdeen City Council and the Scottish Arts Council. Love Your Hall was an event held in Laurencekirk in February 2009 to launch the Public Entertainment Licence (PEL) manual for village halls in K & M. The manual provides guidance for hall committees on attaining a PEL. Information and discussion on funding opportunities, using village halls for cultural events and sustainability also formed part of the event. • Two Heritage Fairs were celebrated in K & M in 2009, one in Stonehaven linked to the celebration of Land, Sea and Song and one in Laurencekirk linked to the reopening of the Laurencekirk Railway Station. The Arts and Education team, Aberdeenshire Council, worked with the primary schools in Laurencekirk on their Heritage Fair. The children created and performed two new songs and a traditional Scottish dance and completed a film making project on the history of Laurencekirk and its railway and other art/craft work. • The reopening of the Railway Station in Laurencekirk was the catalyst for the Railway Station Display Boards project which gave a unique opportunity to demonstrate Curriculum for Excellence and interdisciplinary learning within an academy. The station boards were funded by Planning Gain monies and the project continues to develop with a current aim of creating a garden at the station. KINCARDINE & MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN 2010 – 2014 21 D Sustainable Environment • The Aberdeenshire Sustainable Community Halls Initiative is helping village halls to become more energy efficient leading to lower bills and greater usage. An energy audit of participating halls has been completed including 13 halls in Kincardine and Mearns. The next phase will be a series of workshops providing advice on implementing recommended measures and on sources of funding. • Aberdeenshire Council has upgraded the coastal path between Stonehaven and Dunnottar Castle and the coastal path between Cowie and the Cowie layby. • Fowlsheugh Public access project has been awarded £1782 through the Landfill Tax awards • The Core Path Plan, which aims to provide a basic framework of routes for countryside access throughout Aberdeenshire, was produced for formal consultation in June 2009. Comments received during the consultation will be taken into account by Aberdeenshire Council before the plan is finalised for adoption. • Through community involvement and partnership working, Portlethen Moss has been transformed to the benefit of both users and nature conservation. Portlethen Moss Conservation Group was formed in 2004 with the aim of preserving and enhancing the last remaining area of the Moss. Improvements to the area include gorse clearance, path improvements, landscaping, planting of native trees and hedgerows, interpretation boards and seating. Funding has come from Aberdeenshire Council and Scottish Natural Heritage, the Forestry Commission Scotland and from Talisman Energy and Petrofac. Work has been done by group members and other volunteers in the community and schools. BCTV and the Criminal Justice Service have also provided manpower to achieve the improvements. • Portlethen Moss Conservation Group is also working with Aberdeenshire Council on another project to create a community woodland on the eastern edge of Portlethen. Plans have been drawn up for the Portlethen Community KINCARDINE & Woodland project and MEARNS f u n d i n g s e c u r e d f o r COMMUNITY landscaping and woodland planting. Tree planting began PLAN in March 2010. 2010 – 2014 Information board at Portlethen Moss 22 • A management plan for the woodland areas on the western edge of Mineralwell Park, Stonehaven has been drafted by Aberdeenshire Council. Once finalised and approved, the management plan will provide the basis for appropriate and sustainable management of the woods. • After the flooding in Stonehaven of 1st November Stonehaven Community Council held a Public Meeting with members of the public and officers from Aberdeenshire Council, SEPA, Scottish Water, Grampian Police and Grampian Fire and Rescue Service. In excess of 60 questions were posed by members of the public regarding the response on the night of the flooding, causes of the flooding and what measures could be put in place to protect against a further occurrence. The questions were collated by the Community Planning Group who then facilitated a response to each question. This feedback was given to the community and posted on the www.ouraberdeenshire.org.uk website. • Mearns Area Partnership organised Mearns Moving Forward, a successful community conference on sustainability covering issues such as funding sustainability, sustainable transport and ecological sustainability. • K&M Schools excel in The Eco Schools Programme –More than one third of K& M schools have achieved the prestigious Green Flag compared with the national average figure of 28%. In 2008 Marykirk Primary school received national recognition by being the first school to create a community garden. Mearns Academy achieved their Green Flag in January 2010 for improvements to the school grounds where pupils have developed a garden, vegetable plot, raised beds and composting facilities. They have also developed community links by landscaping an area at Laurencekirk Station and are developing an outdoor learning area for a local nursery. The school have a proactive Eco Committee that are campaigning to find a solution for the replacement of disposable polystyrene containers from the school dining area. Pupils at Portlethen Academy achieved their Green Flag Award for their various campaigns. They have lobbied Pupils in the garden plot at Mearns Academy Council officials about the need for a KINCARDINE & safe cycle path for pupils to get to school in a more environmentally friendly way and MEARNS put on Fair Trade events and presentations on topical environmental issues such as nuclear power. COMMUNITY PLAN 2010 – 2014 23 E Developing Our Partnership • Shaping Aberdeenshire, a well attended Kincardine and Mearns event held in Portlethen in March 2010 was one of several engagement events organised across Aberdeenshire to help to inform the community of the very tight financial circumstances facing all of Scotland’s public sector. Aberdeenshire Council are keen to involve the community steering a path through these challenging times and through engagement are seeking community views to inform the Council budget’s strategic direction. • The network of newsletter editors in Kincardine and Mearns was set up following a highly successful Shaping Aberdeenshire event in Portlethen, 2010 networking evening organised by the Community Planning Officers in April 2009. The network now exists to allow editors to exchange information and articles of general interest. • Community Councillors have put forward a list of training requirements. As a result, a presentation on the new planning framework by one of Aberdeenshire Council’s planning team has taken place, and invitations to a Planning Aid event issued to all Community Councils in the area. Community Learning and Development, Aberdeenshire Council set up some ICT training for Community Councillors and it is hoped that a speed networking event for Community Councillors with the Area Management Team can be arranged. • Young people have been encouraged to participate in local decision making. K & M now has two Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYP) and an Aberdeenshire Youth Councillor. Young people are active in the local youth forums. CLD staff support these young people who have contributed to designing the new community plan targets. • There was a very successful Planning for Real exercise in Newtonhill, Muchalls and Cammachmore last year. The organisers were delighted with the good turnout of local people, and have worked hard with the local communities, Community Planning KINCARDINE & Group and the Area Management Team to turn some of the concerns voiced through MEARNS the exercise into action. COMMUNITY • The Dynamic Drop In event was held over the weekend of 12-14th June 2009 at Portlethen Academy. It was a public consultation event with the objective of gathering PLAN residents’ views on their communities as part of the review of the Community Plan for 2010 – 2014 Kincardine and Mearns 24 • The Community Planning Officers also carried out a public consultation at the MRI Harbour Day in Stonehaven in September 2009 as well as two small scale consultations with older people with the help of the Mearns and Coastal Healthy Living Network. • Two events entitled “With Inclusion In Mind” were held in Kincardine and Mearns in early 2010. The purpose of these events which were organised by Social Work, Aberdeenshire Council and the Community Planning Officers was to look at existing services for people with learning disabilities and mental health problems and where improvements to With Inclusion In Mind event services are needed. These With Inclusion In Mind events which have been organised in a number of areas across Aberdeenshire by the Social Work service of Aberdeenshire Council and the Community Planning Groups have drawn praise from Progress Scotland • MAP in conjunction with CVSA organised Social Accounting training for community organisations. • MAP has also commissioned a piece of research into the potential for social enterprise in the Mearns area.

KINCARDINE & MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN 2010 – 2014 25 5 Timetable

November 2009 Workshop to review the K & M Community Plan 2008 – 2012

January 2010 First draft of new plan sent out for consultation to all workshop attendees

Early February 2010 Second draft sent out for wider consultation

Mid February 2010 Draft Plan to Area Committee for discussion

End February 2010 Public consultation period ends.

Early March 2010 Community Plans for all six areas of Aberdeenshire presented to the Aberdeenshire Community Planning Board.

June 2010 K & M Community Plan 2010 – 14 published.

Spring 2011 Workshops for partners in relation to Community Planning themes and consultation with communities using the current plan as a basis for consultation.

Autumn 2011 KINCARDINE & Work to update the Plan following consultation MEARNS

COMMUNITY January – April 2012 PLAN New plan for 2012 -16 drafted, confirmed and presented to Aberdeenshire Community Planning Board. 2010 – 2014 26 6 Actions and Priorities

A Community Wellbeing

Working together to enhance the quality of everyday life by improving health and social care, housing and community safety.

For an explanation of acronyms and abbreviations please see pages 10 and 11.

Health and Social Care Older People

A1 Enable older people to sustain and improve their health and wellbeing; manage long-term health conditions; cope with disability; and to live as independently as possible through initiatives such as:

a) Development of anticipatory care plans to ensure early intervention and prevention of admission into hospital

b) Education and support to older people and those Wellbeing Community with long term conditions to enable self care c) Supporting the development of Shire wide strategy for older people that takes account of needs specific to K&M Target Date: 2014 Partners: NHSG, AC’s SW service, Third Sector organisations Lead Contact: Locality Manager, NHSG, Social Work Manager (Older People), AC Action Origin: South Aberdeenshire Health Needs Assessment

A2 Establish a Community Wellbeing Forum in Kincardine & Mearns, initially for organisations KINCARDINE & working with older people MEARNS Target Date: Older people’s groups to begin meeting regularly April 2010 COMMUNITY Information leaflet for older people to be launched at event in Oct 2010 PLAN Review progress and priorities April 2011 2010 – 2014 27 Partners: Mearns & Coastal Healthy Living Network, CVSA (C & S), AC’s CLD service, NHSG Lead Contact: CVSA (C & S) Development Officer Action Origin: Older People’s Consultation, discussion amongst agencies working with older people

Children and Families

A3 Taking forward, with partners, “Getting It Right For Every child”, the national framework to help every child or young person to achieve their potential by providing the right help to children, young people and their parents when they need it. Raise awareness and support the development and delivery of services for children and families in Kincardine and Mearns through initiatives such as:

a) Implementing the Keeping Childbirth Natural and Dynamic Programme to maximise opportunities for women to have as natural a birth experience as possible b) Raise awareness and support the development and delivery of services to improve the nutrition of: women of child bearing age, pregnant women and children under 5 in disadvantaged areas of Kincardine and Mearns c) Support the national oral health Childsmile nursery and school programme in the relevant CSNs in Kincardine and Mearns d) Support the local Healthy Weight programme for children and families Target Date: 2012 Partners: AC’s SW, CLD and ELL services, NHSG, GP, CSN Lead Contact: Social Work Manager, Community Support and Locality Manager, NHSG Action Origin: Children Services Single Outcome Agreement

Mental Health and Wellbeing

A4 Support the mental health and wellbeing of vulnerable individuals and groups in Kincardine and Mearns to ensure that people have access to a range of support mechanisms such as training, groups and information including:

a) Supporting the development of shire-wide strategy for mental health that takes into Community Wellbeing Community account the needs of K&M communities b) Supporting the roll out of appropriate Choose Life and Suicide Prevention training c) Progress K&M workshop on mental health and well-being to establish needs of area d) Identifying coordinated and agreed action that can be taken in response to issues raised through the 2010 With Inclusion In Mind events held in K & M Target Date: 2014 With Inclusion In Mind issues to be followed up 2010 Partners: LCPG, Third Sector organisations Lead Contact: a), b), c) Public Health Coordinator, NHSG KINCARDINE & d) CPO MEARNS Action Origin: Aberdeenshire Health Needs Assessment which highlighted mental health as a top priority in the Kincardine and Mearns area, With Inclusion COMMUNITY In Mind PLAN 2010 – 2014 28 Disability

A5 People with a disability who require community care services are enabled to sustain and improve their health, manage their disability and live as independently as possible Target Date: Ongoing Partners: AC, NHSG, Third Sector organisations Lead Contact: Learning Disability Strategic Outcome Group and Physical Disability Strategic Outcome Group Action Origin: Learning Disability Strategic Outcome Statement and Physical Disability Strategic Outcome Statement

A6 Implement the Shared Lives Scheme to provide permanent, regular and occasional breaks that are flexible and individual within the community for adults who have a disability Raise awareness of the Shared Lives Scheme to prospective carers who can offer this service from their own home Target Date: 2010 Partners: AC Lead Contact: Team Leader, Shared Lives, Social Work Action Origin: With Inclusion In Mind

Health Inequalities

A7 Targeting health inequalities in K&M in order to improve health and wellbeing of identified communities including: Community Wellbeing Community a) Work with communities identified in south Aberdeenshire Health Needs Assessment to improve health and well-being b) Develop Community Led Health initiatives through the provision of training and support for specific groups of health professionals c) Develop and support projects focused on health and well-being through local Health Improvement Fund (HIF) Target Date: Target Regeneration Area 2011 Partners: LCPG, MAP Lead Contact: Public Health Coordinator, NHSG Action Origin: South Aberdeenshire Health Needs Assessment recommendation to adopt a community led health approach in communities experiencing KINCARDINE & health inequalities MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN 2010 – 2014 29 Substance Misuse

A8 Services will focus on supporting recovery, equipping people and communities to avoid harm, improving outcomes in the key areas of homelessness, employability and family support and improving access to services. Service users, their families and communities will be involved in decision making to ensure services are commissioned on the basis of need. This will be achieved through initiatives such as:

a) Helping individuals misusing alcohol to re-address their alcohol intake b) Raising awareness of current alcohol consumption messages c) Support training of GPs and Minor Injuries staff in the Alcohol Brief Intervention screening tool d) Plan and support joint action to reduce alcohol misuse by young people in Kincardine and Mearns and to improve outcomes for young people affected by parental substance misuse e) Raise awareness of and support participating in training opportunities focusing on Domestic and Elder Abuse across Kincardine and Mearns f) Improve outcomes for the key areas of homelessness, employability and access to services Target Date: 2014 Partners: NHSG, AC, GP, Aberdeenshire ADP, Third Sector organisations Lead Contact: Public Health Coordinator, NHSG, Aberdeenshire ADP Action Origin: South Aberdeenshire Health Needs Assessment where substance misuse was ranked second in importance after mental health

A9 Criminal Justice Addictions Team

To work in partnership with Aberdeenshire Council Fieldwork Team, Aberdeenshire Drug and Alcohol partnerships, Community Substance Misuse Teams and voluntary agencies including Turning Point Scotland in the provision of services to people in the Criminal Justice system experiencing substance misuse issues Target Date: Aberdeenshire Criminal Justice Service Action Plan 09/10 to be reviewed

Community Wellbeing Community April 2010 Aberdeenshire Annual Plan 2010/2011 in place March 2010 and reviewed September 2010 Partners: Aberdeenshire Council, Aberdeenshire Drug and Alcohol Partnership, Community Substance Misuse Teams, voluntary agencies including Turning Point Scotland Lead Contact: Social Work Manager (Criminal Justice) Action Origin: Northern Community Justice Authority Area Plan 2008 – 2011

KINCARDINE & MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN 2010 – 2014 30 Public Protection Services

A10 Ensuring appropriate protection measures are in place to support and protect vulnerable adults and children in K & M through initiatives such as:

a) Training available and audited for staff in K & M with regard to Child Protection, Adult Protection and Gender Based Abuse b) Awareness raising throughout K & M with regard to Child Protection, Adult Protection and Gender Based Abuse c) Monitoring of prevalence figures and support provided in K & M Target Date: Training and awareness raising to be audited October 2011 Partners: AC’s SW and CLD services, NHSG, GP, Third Sector organisations Lead Contact: Children – Aberdeenshire Child Protection Strategy Group Adults – Aberdeenshire Adult Protection Committee Action Origin: Children Service Plan, Aberdeenshire Adult Protection Committee Action Plan

Health Facilities

A11 Review provision of health centres and clinics to ensure that they meet the needs of the current and projected population Target Date: 2008-2018 Partners: NHSG Lead Contact: Locality Manager, NHSG Kincardine Community Hospital Action Origin: Stonehaven 2020, Older People’s consultation, Planning for Real in Newtonhill, Muchalls and Cammachmore, NHSG target

A12 Utilise local hospital facilities more widely for minor conditions/out patients services in order to deliver safe, effective and timely care in the right place

Target Date: Increase in locally delivered care dependent on availability of resources Wellbeing Community Partners: NHS Grampian Lead Contact: Locality Manager, NHSG Action Origin: Stonehaven 2020, Older People’s consultation, NHSG Local Health Plan

A13 Provide a more supportive and efficient means of patient transport to those experiencing a real difficulty accessing healthcare services.

Survey the transport needs of those using NHS facilities in the area.

Carry out a pilot scheme that takes an integrated approach to matching healthcare appointments with public and patient transport provision. KINCARDINE & Explore and promote the extension of this scheme to services provided by agencies or individuals other than the NHS and to those services that cater for those experiencing MEARNS mental health issues or learning difficulties COMMUNITY PLAN 2010 – 2014 31 Target Date: Survey complete April 2010, agree on scheme details July 2010 Pilot scheme running April 2011 Partners: GP, NHSG, NHS Tayside, Scottish Ambulance, St. John’s Ambulance Service, Stagecoach, Nicholls Coaches, Scotrail, AC Lead Contact: Health Transport Action Plan Programme Support Manager, GP Action Origin: With Inclusion in Mind, Stonehaven Harbour Day, DDI 2009, Older People’s consultations Housing A14) a To work in partnership with the Scottish Government, private developers and registered social landlords to assist in the delivery of affordable housing throughout the K & M area. This will aim to ensure households in this area have access to Housing, Laurencekirk affordable housing, particularly in the top priority areas.

b) To work in partnership with registered social landlords, Scottish Government and private developers together with Social Work and external providers to assist in the delivery of affordable housing for people with particular needs and older people living in K & M Target Date: A14a – March 2010 – Commence development of 6 new build properties for rent in Johnshaven March 2010 – Completion of 20 New Supply Shared Equity properties in partnership with the Scottish government 2010 – Completion of 30 units for rent through the Aberdeenshire Housing Partnership A14b – 2010 – 2 x 1 bedroom wheelchair adapted flats in Portlethen 2010 – 2 x 2 bedroom wheelchair adapted bungalows in Portlethen Partners: AC’s Housing service Lead Contact: a) Development Officer (Affordable Housing) Community Wellbeing Community b) Development Officer (Particular Needs) Action Origin: DDI 2007 and Auchenblae Planning for Real

A15 Work in partnership with the Aberdeenshire Rural Housing Enabler (Rural Housing Service) to assist in measuring housing need and enabling the provision of housing alternatives in rural locations by:

a) investigating the housing needs of smaller rural settlements where there is little stock or low/no waiting lists to help inform the Council, housing associations and developers for future housing investment b) aiming to improve the uptake of housing grants by providing advice and information on options such as Rural Homes for Rent, Rural Empty Property Grants or the Rural KINCARDINE & Homes for Rent Grant Scheme MEARNS Target Date: 2009/2010 COMMUNITY Partners: AC PLAN Lead Contact: Housing & Social Work (Housing) 2010 – 2014 Action Origin: DDI 2007, Auchenblae Planning for Real 32 A16 Improve the quality of public housing stock in Kincardine and Mearns in order to achieve the Scottish Housing Quality Standards (SHQS). Programme of work to include door, kitchen, heating, bathroom and window upgrades and environmental and fuel efficiency improvements Target Date: All houses up to SHQS standard by 2015. Three year rolling report to Area Committee on annual basis by November each year. Partners: AC Lead Contact: Housing & Social Work (Housing) Action Origin: Current Community Plan

A17 To improve the quality and suitability of private sector housing across Aberdeenshire to meet the Scottish Housing Quality Standard through initiatives such as the development of a Statement of Assistance for homeowners and tenants of private landlords to help them to repair, maintain, improve or adapt their homes. Target Date: Improve the quality of 350 properties per year Partners: AC Lead Contact: Strategic Development Officer (Private Sector), Housing and Social Work (Housing) Action Origin: Private Sector Housing Strategic Outcome Statement

A18 To continue to meet the housing requirements of migrant workers in the area through the Ethnic Minority Outreach Worker Project Target Date: Progress Review 2010 Partners: Tenants First, AC Lead Contact: Community Development Supervisor, Tenants First Action Origin: Local Housing Strategy which has been developed to include the needs of ethnic minorities, in particular migrant workers and gypsies/travellers

A19 To consider the needs of all ethnic minority groups including Gypsies/Travellers by developing the Gypsy/Traveller Action Plan Target Date: Progress review 2010 Partners: AC Community Wellbeing Community Lead Contact: Strategic Development Officer (Social Inclusion) Action Origin: Local Housing Strategy which has been developed to include the needs of ethnic minorities, in particular migrant workers and gypsies/travellers Community Safety A20 Make Kincardine and Mearns feel a safer place to live by organising safety and information events for vulnerable groups such as older people, migrant workers, children and young people Target Date: Organise at least one event in 2010 Partners: Community Safety Partnership, GP Lead Contact: Strategic Development Officer, Community Safety, AC KINCARDINE & Action Origin: 27% of Kincardine and Mearns residents surveyed through the MEARNS Aberdeenshire Council Residents Survey reported feeling unsafe at night on the street or in their home. COMMUNITY PLAN 2010 – 2014 33 Road Safety

A21 Improve road safety through traffic management, speed limit reductions and other road safety measures Target Date: Planned traffic management reviews: 2010 – Portlethen, Laurencekirk and Stonehaven 2010/2011 – Auchenblae, Gourdon and Johnshaven 2011/2012 – Inverbervie and Fettercairn Partners: AC, GP Lead Contact: Transport Strategy Manager, AMT Action Origin: Residents’ Survey, Planning for Real in Newtonhill, Muchalls and Cammachmore, Planning for Real in Auchenblae, DDI 2007 and DDI 2009

A22 Pursue improvements to the A90 junctions with Transport Scotland Target Date: December 2010 Partners: CSP Lead Contact: Strategic Development Officer, Community Safety, AC Action Origin: Residents’ Survey, Planning for Real in Newtonhill, Muchalls and Cammachmore, Planning for Real in Auchenblae, DDI 2007 and DDI 2009

A23 Carry out initiatives specifically targeted at reducing road collisions within K & M and making the road links in and around K & M safer for all users

a) 4 Momentum driving courses b) Primary and secondary school information sessions c) Take Control and Safe Drive Stay Alive

Community Wellbeing Community initiatives d) Hot Strike initiatives in areas where incidents have occurred to raise public awareness of road safety Target Date: a) 2011 Safe Drive Stay Alive event b) This will be measured quarterly by means of the Joint Police Board Quarterly Reports published by Grampian Police and also by regular community engagement and partnership working. c) Safe Drive Stay Alive run annually for all fifth year secondary pupils in K & M KINCARDINE & d) Hot Strike initiatives are reactive and take place in locations where a MEARNS need has been established Partners: GP, GFRS, AC’s CLD service, CSP, Scottish Ambulance Service COMMUNITY Lead Contact: a) CLD Team Leader PLAN b) Kincardine and Mearns Inspector 2010 – 2014 c) and d) Station Manager, Aberdeenshire Command 34 Action Origin: Grampian Police supported by findings from the Residents’ Survey, Planning for Real in Newtonhill, Muchalls and Cammachmore, Planning for Real in Auchenblae, DDI 2007 and DDI 2009

Fire Safety

A24 Carry out local community safety work and initiatives including:

a) a) Home Fire Safety visits aimed at reducing accidental house fires b) b) Coordinating Community Fire Safety risk reduction activity and delivery of campaigns, initiatives and interventions including: • Willful fires involving refuse • Chimney fires • Unwanted automatic fire alarms Target Date: 2010 – 2011 Partners: GFRS, GP Lead Contact: Station Manager, Aberdeenshire Command Action Origin: Risk reduction is a priority for the service. Between 2006 –2009 there were 124 casualties in Aberdeenshire as a result of dwelling house fires including 10 fatalities

A25 Develop safer routes to schools including provision for walking and cycling to school with an initial focus on the community of Newtonhill Target Date: Work with Newtonhill Primary School and wider community – 2010 Outcomes monitored through hands up surveys and school travel plans Partners: AC Lead Contact: School Travel Plan Officer, T & I Action Origin: Newtonhill, Muchalls and Cammachmore Planning for Real, Wellbeing Community Auchenblae Planning for Real and the DDI 2009 See me bus stop trial A26 To deliver a youth education programme that raises awareness and supports young peoples to understand the need for safety and knowledge with a focus on: • Coastal awareness • Internet safety Target Date: 2013 Partners: AC’s CLD and EL & L services, GP, Coastguard, MRI, GFRS Lead Contact: CLD Team Leader Action Origin: Increase in incidents on the coast involving young people and unsafe KINCARDINE & behaviour. Previous Safe Driving Schemes over subscribed. With MEARNS increasing use of the internet there is a need to continue to raise COMMUNITY awareness of the risks. PLAN 2010 – 2014 35 A27 Provide a visible police presence in the communities of K & M by regularly deploying the mobile police office throughout the area whilst also ensuring regular mobile, foot and cycle patrols are achieved Target Date: This will be monitored through monthly engagement between police and local community councils and other community engagement. Partners: GP Lead Contact: Kincardine and Mearns Inspector Action Origin: GP supported by findings from DDI 2007 where there were calls for more foot patrols

A28 Carry out partnership initiatives specifically aimed at reducing under age drinking, anti social behaviour and vandalism throughout K & M Target Date: This will be measured quarterly by means of the Joint Police Board Quarterly Reports published by GP and also regular community engagement and partnership working Partners: GP, AC’s CLD service, ADP, CSP, youth organisations Lead Contact: Kincardine and Mearns Inspector Action Origin: GP supported by evidence from AC’s Residents’ Survey where underage drinking was one of the main concerns. It also found evidence that communities would support more robust enforcement to complement educational and diversionary work.

A29 Carry out proactive, intelligence led operations aimed at reducing the availability and supply of controlled drugs within the communities of K & M and ensuring a partnership approach is adopted within the scope of the Aberdeenshire Alcohol and Drugs partnership in terms of intelligence gathering, education and enforcement in relation to all matters concerning controlled drugs Target Date: This will be measured quarterly by means of the Joint Police Board Quarterly Reports published by Grampian Police and also by regular community engagement and partnership working. Partners: GP, ADP, AC, Community Councils Lead Contact: Kincardine and Mearns Inspector

Community Wellbeing Community Action Origin: Grampian Police supported by findings from Aberdeenshire Council’s Residents’ Survey which highlights controlled drugs as a priority.

Criminal Justice

A30 To deliver Aberdeenshire Council Criminal Justice Service Action Plan to reduce re-offending and promote community safety based around the National Strategy for the Management of Offenders five themes, Setting Priorities, Working Together In New Ways, Developing and Supporting the Workforce, Communication and Measuring, Learning and Acting Target Date: Aberdeenshire Criminal Justice Service Action Plan 09/10 to be reviewed April 2010 Aberdeenshire Annual Plan 2010/2011 in place March 2010 and KINCARDINE & reviewed September 2010 MEARNS Partners: AC, GP, Scottish Prison Service, Voluntary Sector Agencies COMMUNITY Lead Contact: Social Work Manager (Criminal Justice) PLAN Action Origin: Northern Community Justice Authority Area Plan 2008 – 2011 2010 – 2014 36 A31 Community Service by Offenders

To identify and develop innovative projects which are constructive, are to the benefit of residents in Kincardine and Mearns and which enable the offender to make reparation to the community for the offence Target Date: Number of offenders sentenced to Community Service who are offered a placement within 7 working days to be measured quarterly Partners: Statutory and Third Sector organisations which provide placement opportunities for offenders Lead Contact: Social Work Manager (Criminal Justice) Action Origin: Community Service is delivered within the framework of National Outcomes and Standards for the Social Work Services in the Criminal Justice System

A32 Take measures to improve coastal safety and the safety of those at sea Target Date: Run a promotional campaign during the course of 2009/11 to increase the use of lifejackets by both private boat users and the fishing community Partners: Maritime and Coastguard Agency, RNLI, RYA Lead Contact: Watch Manager Action Origin: In 2008, an expert panel made up of representatives of the MCA, RNLI and RYA found that in a significant number of fatalities at sea, wearing a lifejacket would have had a more positive outcome, either possibly or probably saving a person’s life. Community Wellbeing Community

Old Portlethen harbour

KINCARDINE & MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN 2010 – 2014 37 B Jobs and the Economy

Working together to improve the economy of Aberdeenshire and the employment prospects of its people.

For an explanation of acronyms and abbreviations please see pages 10 and 11.

Community Economic Development B1 Deliver on the More Choices, More Chances agenda across Kincardine and Mearns by ensuring all young people that have no employment or training destination from school are engaged with and supported towards positive outcomes. Target Date: Two groupings planned May/December 2010 Partners: AC’s CLD and EL & L services Lead Contact: Team Leader, CLD Action Origin: Government initiative to support young people, Education, Learning and Leisure priority

B2 Establish whether young people in the area have the information they need about vocational training opportunities available to them in order that they can make informed choices Target Date: 2010 Partners: AC, Training Providers, JobCentrePlus Lead Contact: CPO Action Origin: DDI 2009

B3 Working for Families

Deliver employability support to parents on welfare benefits across Kincardine and Mearns: • Continue to offer one to one support to parents • Develop and deliver training and personal development opportunities • Increase number of parents entering learning, training or employment Target Date: 2011

Jobs and the Economy Partners: AC Lead Contact: T & I (Economic Development) Action Origin: Tackling Poverty and Inequalities / Fairer Scotland

Childcare

B4a) Work in partnership to support the development of the out of school care sector, including: • continuing to provide start up funding for day care/wrap around care across the independent, KINCARDINE & public and voluntary sectors MEARNS • providing start up grants to new childminders and grants to existing childminders for COMMUNITY interconnecting smoke alarms, out of school PLAN care and additional support needs 2010 – 2014 38 • providing funding to refurbish or enhance and develop indoor and outdoor early years and childcare facilities in the voluntary and public sector • developing opportunities for out of school care during holiday periods • providing childcare projects that operate year round including in-service days and local holidays b) Implementing the recommendations of the feasibility study on childcare in rural areas and expanding childcare provision in partnership with local groups and subject to funding availability Target Date: 2010 – 2013 Partners: ACP Lead Contact: ACP Development Worker Action Origin: DDI 2007 c) Work in partnership to promote child minding in Kincardine and Mearns particularly where there is an identified need Target Date: 2010 – 2014 Partners: SCA Lead Contact: SCA Development Officer Action Origin: DDI 2007

B5 a) Continue to support rural part- nerships through the Aberdeen- shire Rural Partnership Fund subject to the delivery of satis- factory service level agreements b) Support community or social enterprises through the Community Asset Fund to develop assets or services that will provide the organisation with an ongoing income Jobs and the Economy c) Social enterprise training programme organised by Aberdeenshire CVS Training Initiative Gourdon harbour and village Target Date: Reviewed annually Social enterprise training, 2010 Partners: AC, CVSA (C & S) Lead Contact: a), b) T & I (Economic Development) c) CVSA (C & S) Development Officer Action Origin: Strategic priority for Economic Development, AC KINCARDINE & MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN 2010 – 2014 39 B6 To put in place a mutually satisfactory lease, operating agreement or management agreement between AC and the Mill of Benholm project and to adopt a sustainable business plan for the project Target Date: 2010 – 2011 Partners: Mill of Benholm Project, AC, CVSA (C & S) Lead Contact: Project Manager, Mill of Benholm Project Action Origin: Statement of Intent, Mill of Benholm project

B7 To establish a framework for addressing issues including tourism arising in the coastal strip defined in the Structure Plan as a regeneration area Target Date: June 2010 Partners: AC, KMAP, MAP Lead Contact: Area Manager, AC Action Origin: AC Structure Plan

B8 Support for the Creative Sector contributing to our local economy

We will support the creative sector by initiating and supporting training opportunities, developing audiences and through the deployment of professional grant schemes. Target Date: 2010-2012 Partners: Aberdeenshire Council’s Cultural Services Lead Contact: Arts Development Officer (South) Action Origin: Linked National Outcome Targets 2 and 10 Transport B9 Improve transport services in K & M by:

a) Carrying out a review of the 65 Special Dial-A-Trip bus services in Kincardine and Mearns to ensure the provision of a service which, within available resources, best meets the needs of older and disabled people in the area Target Date: December 2010 Partners: AC’s T & I and SW services and Mearns and Coastal Healthy Living

Jobs and the Economy Network Lead Contact: Principal Officer, Public Transport Unit Action Origin: Older People’s consultation, Planning for Real in Newtonhill, Muchalls and Cammachmore, With Inclusion in Mind b) Providing advice and ongoing support to existing community transport schemes and assist groups to develop local schemes by advising on funding applications and other operational matters Target Date: 2010 – 2014 Partners: Mearns Community Transport, MAP, AC’s Public Transport Unit, CVSA (C&S), VCA, Aberdeenshire Community Transport Forum KINCARDINE & Lead Contact: Principal Officer (DRT, Fares & Ticketing), AC’s T & I Service MEARNS Action Origin: Older People’s consultation, DDI 2007, DDI 2009, Planning for Real in Auchenblae, Planning for Real in Newtonhill, Muchalls and COMMUNITY Cammachmore, Planning for Real St Cyrus, Grampian Racial Equality PLAN Council travel survey, Aberdeenshire Council’s Residents’ Survey, Mearns Youth Consultation, With Inclusion in Mind 2010 – 2014 40 c) Completing an accessibility analysis of the Aberdeenshire local supported public transport network in Kincardine and Mearns to highlight any communities which have a lower relative provision of public transport than other similar settlements d) Following the completion of the accessibility analysis, prepare a report for the LCPG which addresses bus transport needs and other transport options in the rural areas of Kincardine and Mearns Target Date: 2011/2012 Partners: AC’s T & I service, Angus Council, MAP, Mearns Community Transport Lead Contact: Principal Officer (Local Services), T & I, AC Action Origin: Stonehaven 2020, Citizens Panel, Older People’s consultation, DDI 2007, DDI 2009, Planning for Real in Newtonhill, Muchalls and Cammachmore, With Inclusion in Mind e) Introducing some cheaper fare options on the Aberdeenshire local supported public transport network Target Date: August 2010 Partners: AC Lead Contact: Principal Officer (DRT, Fares & Ticketing), T & I, AC Action Origin: AC’s Residents Survey, Planning for Real in Auchenblae, Planning for Real in Newtonhill, Muchalls and Cammachmore, Grampian Racial Equality Council travel survey, With Inclusion in Mind f) Increasing usage of local bus services and improving public transport between villages through the provision of a high quality bus infrastructure and the promotion of bus services Target Date: 2011 Partners: AC, Stagecoach, M W Nicoll (Hirers) Laurencekirk Ltd Lead Contact: Principal Officer (Local Services), T & I, AC Action Origin: DDI 2007, DDI 2009, Planning for Real in Newtonhill, Muchalls and Cam- machmore, Stonehaven 2020, Citizens Panel, Older People’s consulta- tion, Mearns Youth Consultation, Planning for Real in Auchenblae, With Inclusion in Mind g) Ensuring that the potential for reopening Newtonhill Railway Station is considered as Jobs and the Economy part of the development of a Rail Action Plan for North East Scotland Target Date: 2014 Partners: Nestrans and the North East Rail Forum Lead Contact: Transport Strategy Manager, Nestrans Action Origin: Planning for Real in Newtonhill, Muchalls and Cammachmore

KINCARDINE & MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN

Bus stop, Stonehaven 2010 – 2014 41 Rural Development B10 a) Support the delivery of the Rural Aberdeenshire L EADER programme and work of the Aberdeenshire Local Action Group (LAG)

b) Encourage and support community groups in K & M to access European Union funding sources such as SRDP and LEADER Target Date: Increase in successful European funding bids each year until 2014 Partners: AC’s T & I and CLD services, CVSA (C & S), Third Sector organisations, MAP, KMAP Lead Contact: a) T & I (Economic Development), AC Rural Aberdeenshire Leader programme b) CVSA (C & S) Development Officer Action Origin: EU funded project and strategic priority for Economic Development, AC Business Development B11 Support the development of local businesses and their employment potential through the Support for Aberdeenshire Business (SAB) Scheme or relevant development projects in accordance with the Council’s economic development priorities to 2011 and beyond Target Date: Reviewed annually Partners: AC Lead Contact: T & I (Economic Development), AC Action Origin: SAB underpins all Economic Development strategic objectives by supporting business development Tourism Lifelong Learning Lifelong B12 To work proactively with VisitScotland, other agencies, Stonehaven Business Association Tourism Group and the community to promote Stonehaven and Kincardine and Mearns as a visitor destination Target Date: 2010 – 2012 Partners: AC, VisitScotland, Stonehaven Business Association Tourism Group Lead Contact: Area Manager, AC Action Origin: MRI Harbour Day consultation

B13 Appropriate policies to be included in the Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan in relation to the protection of essential tourism facilities and the diversification of the rural economy Target Date: September 2010 Partners: AC Lead Contact: Planning and Environmental Services, AC Action Origin: Community Plan review workshop KINCARDINE & MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN 2010 – 2014 42 C Lifelong Learning

Working and learning together to develop and improve learning opportunities and build stronger communities.

For an explanation of acronyms and abbreviations please see pages 10 and 11.

C1 Community members will be actively involved in the design process for the replacements of Drumoak and Dunnottar Primary Schools and Mearns Academy and for a new Primary School at Hillside, Portlethen

Design workshops will be held to Mearns Academy ensure, where possible, the inclusion of community need and aspiration in the school facilities Target Date: Review date end 2010 Partners: AC’s ELL Service, Community Development Groups, Parents’ Associations, Community Councils, Pupil Councils, Youth Forums and other identified stakeholders Lead Contact: Education Officer, Stonehaven Education Office Action Origin: Public consultation for School Asset Management Strategy, Stonehaven 2020, DDI 2009

C2 Continue to develop youth opportunities in dialogue with young people and increase youth participation. With a focus on the following:

a) Enable young people to identify and make progress towards finding solutions to youth issues through 3 youth consultations and assist them in delivering the findings to local elected members/ community groups and activists, 2010 – 2014 b) Develop and run groups that support young people who are moving from rural primary schools to secondary education, 2010 – 2014

c) Increase the awareness and uptake of youth accreditation opportunities by 20%, Jobs and the Economy 2011 – 2012 d) Increase engagement and opportunities for young people in the coastal Regeneration Priority Area, 2011 – 2013 e) Facilitate 2 meetings per year to enable youth organisations to network, 2010 – 2011 Target Date: Included above Partners: Youth Scotland, AC’s CLD, ELL& SW services, GP, NHSG, Aberdeen Foyer, Local Colleges Lead Contact: CLD Team Leader, AC Action Origin: Youth consultations, CLD strategy KINCARDINE & C3 Investigate the need for informal youth facilities across K & M: MEARNS a) Establish usage of existing facilities including village halls COMMUNITY b) Enable young people to develop youth facilities in partnership with statutory and PLAN voluntary lead partners 2010 – 2014 43 Target Date: June 2011 Partners: LCPG, Youth Scotland Lead Contact: CLD Team Leader, AC Action Origin: Stonehaven Harbour Day Consultation, DDI 2009, Mearns Youth Consultation 2009

C4 The development of leisure facilities in K & M will respond, where possible, to needs and aspirations identified through consultation and community engagement Target Date: Leisure needs identified and action plan developed June Inverbervie Sports Centre 2011 Partners: LCPG, Community Development Groups, Stonehaven Sport, Leisure and Culture Action Group Lead Contact: Community Leisure Team Leader, AC Action Origin: Stonehaven 2020, DDI 2009, Local Planning for Real Exercises, AC’s Residents’ Survey

C5 Support people to volunteer in Kincardine and Mearns

a) Remove the barriers to volunteering b) Improve the volunteer experience c) Increase the number of people involved in volunteering

Lifelong Learning Lifelong d) Increase the number of young volunteers e) Ensure volunteering is recognised at policy level f) Increase the number of training opportunities g) Increase the number of volunteering opportunities in the business sector leading to increased employability Target Date: 2010 – 2014 Partners: VCA, CVSA (C & S), AC’s CLD service, Employability Strategy Group Lead Contact: Manager, VCA Action Origin: Local WIM events, Mearns Youth Consultation, Councillor feedback, DDI 2009

C6 Explore the potential of developing a centralised database of training opportunities for volunteers and community groups to be available on the internet Target Date: Investigate how this may develop and identify suitable host website, KINCARDINE & 2011 MEARNS Partners: CVSA (C & S), MAP, KMAP, AC’s CLD service Lead Contact: CVSA (C & S) Development Officer COMMUNITY PLAN Action Origin: Need repeatedly raised in a number of forums 2010 – 2014 44 C7 Explore and extend flexible and open-ended ICT learning opportunities that meet the needs of older people across K & M Target Date: Increased numbers each year until 2014 Partners: Mearns and Coastal Healthy Living Network, Aberdeen College, AC’s CLD service, ALIS, GFRS Lead Contact: Mearns and Coastal Healthy Living Network Action Origin: Older People’s Consultations

C8 Increase the range of adult learning opportunities across Kincardine and Mearns, with a focus on the following targets:

a) Increase by 25% of staff and volunteers who are able to deliver literacy and numeracy support to adults by running qualification and awareness sessions, 2011- 2012 b) Support migrant workers with ESOL provision and quality local information, 2010 – 2014 c) Engage with Partners to identify the learning opportunities that are available for adults, increase public awareness of these opportunities and offer guidance for adults prior to embarking on a learning experience, 2011 – 2012 d) Increase the awareness and uptake of accreditation opportunities by 20%, 2011 – 2012 e) Develop and support vulnerable parents through a range of parenting initiatives, 2010 – 2014 Target Date: Short, medium & long term targets included Partners: AC’s CLD & ELL services, local colleges & universities, Worker’s Educational Association, Adult Learning Partnership, Skills Development Scotland

Lead Contact: CLD Team Leader, AC Learning Lifelong Action Origin: CLD strategy, Adult learning consultations & forums, South Aberdeenshire Health Needs Assessment, Skills for Scotland

C9 Find and implement a solution to the need identified by the Portlethen Parks Group for improved and accessible community play park facilities in Portlethen. Target Date: 2011 Partners: Portlethen Parks Group, AC’s CLD & Landscape Services, CVSA (C & S), KMAP, LCPG Lead Contact: Portlethen Parks Project Group Action Origin: Portlethen Parks Group Consultations, DDI 2009 Portlethen Parks Group KINCARDINE & C10 Improve the facilities and activities available in Stonehaven Town Hall MEARNS a) Complete the structural repair work funded by Town Centre Regeneration Fund COMMUNITY b) Conclude discussions and work towards to a successful transfer of the facility PLAN management to a community body 2010 – 2014 45 c) Transfer Stonehaven Town Hall to financially sustainable operations that meet the needs of the community Target Date: a) June 2010, b) end 2010, c) end 2014 Partners: STP, Community Trust to be constituted, CVSA (C & S) Lead Contact: Chair, Stonehaven Town Hall Steering Group (temporary) Action Origin: Stonehaven 2020, DDI 2009, ATP Stonehaven Strategy, Town Hall Feasibility Study

C11 Create a Town Strategy for Stonehaven Target Date: December 2011 Partners: STP, all Community Planning Partners supplying services in Stonehaven Lead Contact: Chairperson, STP Action Origin: Future of Stonehaven Report, SuS SET outturn report

C12 Deliver Per cent for Art across the whole of K & M

To develop strategies to ensure better use of “a percent for art” monies within settlements and new developments Target Date: 2010-2012 Partners: AC’s P&E Services Lead Contact: Environment Planner (Public Art), AC Action Origin: Linked to National Outcome Target 10

C13 Widen access to cultural & heritage opportunities for people of all ages

AC services (Arts, Heritage/Museums & Libraries) will work with a broad range of Partners including the voluntary and independent sectors to promote and develop opportunities for engagement in cultural activity

Lifelong Learning Lifelong Support local involvement in a Public Arts consultation in North Kincardine Target Date: 2010 – 2014 Partners: AC’s Cultural Services and CLD Service Lead Contact: Cultural Services Team Leader South and CLD Team Leader, AC Action Origin: Linked to National Outcome Targets 10 & 7

C14 Supporting creativity & achieving potential

For children & young people we will devise a sustainable framework of cultural entitlements which support Curriculum for Excellence in Aberdeenshire. This work will be delivered with a broad range of Partners including the voluntary and independent sectors to promote and develop opportunities for engagement in cultural activity. Target Date: 2010-2012 Partners: AC’s Cultural Services Lead Contact: Cultural Services Team KINCARDINE & Leader (South) MEARNS Action Origin: Linked National Outcome Targets 4, 5, and 6 COMMUNITY PLAN

2010 – 2014 Dunnottar primary Homecoming art 46 D Sustainable Environment

Working together to achieve sustainability by reducing resource use, protecting our environment, combating climate change and conserving and enhancing biodiversity.

For an explanation of acronyms and abbreviations please see pages 10 and 11.

D1 Develop a forum for groups working on sustainable, environmental projects in K & M which will:

a) focus on networking and knowledge exchange b) assist in identifying common/shared purposes. c) support groups to develop realistic projects which will reduce the area’s carbon footprint. d) engage the community to establish if a target such as carbon neutrality Kincardine and Mearns has support. Target Date: First forum meeting late 2010 Partners: KMAP, MAP, TraM, SEAS & AC Lead Contact: KMAP Development Worker Action Origin: The emergence of a number of new community groups with a focus on sustainable practices

D2 Reduce the proportion of municipal waste going to landfill down to 50% by 2013 through sustainable waste disposal and reuse services such as: a) extension of food waste collections to households in rural areas by June 2010. Target Date: As above Partners: AC’s WM Service Lead Contact: Waste Management Officer Action Origin: AC’s Residents Survey, the Scottish Government’s Zero Waste Plan b) Investigate the establishment of a re-use project for household items in Stonehaven Sustainable Environment Target Date: Investigate feasibility June 2011, if feasible then develop project by June 2012 Partners: CVSA (C & S), KMAP, AC’s WM Service Lead Contact: CVSA (C & S) Development Worker Action Origin: Zero Waste Targets, DDI 2009, community enthusiasm for an item exchange scheme following 2009 flooding in Stonehaven c) Investigate the demand for an improved and sustainable recycling facility in Portlethen. KINCARDINE & • Review and report on the existing recycling facility MEARNS • Project future need in line with development planning COMMUNITY • Identify options for a cost effective and sustainable facility PLAN 2010 – 2014 47 Target Date: Report by end of 2010 Partners: AC’s WM Service Lead Contact: Waste Manager (Environment) Action Origin: Problems highlighted by local Councillor at the existing recycling site at Asda

D3 Promote initiatives aimed at nurturing responsible relationships with the local environment with a focus on:

a) reducing littering through schemes such as Adopt-a-Street and National Spring Clean b) reducing dog fouling by promoting Green Dog walker’s initiative Target Date: Key actions identified, October 2010 Partners: LCPG, AC’s Dog Warden, ELL & WM Services, KMAP, Horizon Project, GP Lead Contact: CPO Action Origin: Planning for Real Newtonhill, Muchalls and Cammachmore, AC’s Residents Survey, MRI Harbour Day, DDI 2009

D4 Review street cleansing services Target Date: Review produced by end 2010 Further community consultation will be conducted and resulting information used to continue to improve service delivery to a target of 80% on the Keep Scotland Beautiful performance indicator by the year 2012 Partners: AC’s WM Services, LCPG Lead Contact: Waste Management Officer, AC Action Origin: AC’s Residents Survey, Keep Scotland Beautiful Targets

D5 Deliver locally on the actions and recommendations outlined in The Aberdeenshire Walking and Cycling Action Plan:

a) where resources allow implement the Core Path Plan, enhancing accessibility for all b) explore possibilities for providing Sustainable Environment bike friendly bus services c) support the provision of bike storage facilities d) promote schemes such as Cycle to Work and planning procedures that Launch of the Aberdeenshire Walking and Cycling Action Plan support cycling and walking e) deliver skills and safety development Target Date: Short, medium and long term targets KINCARDINE & Partners: AC’s T&I Service, KMAP, Nicholls Buses, MAP, TraM, GP MEARNS Lead Contact: Transport Strategy Manager, AC COMMUNITY Action Origin: Planning for Real in Newtonhill, Muchalls and Cammachmore, DDI 2007 PLAN & 2009, Portlethen Parks Group consultation, Stonehaven 2020 2010 – 2014 48 D6 Ensure that in new developments adequate provision is made for sustainable waste management (i.e. provision for storage, segregation, composting where appropriate, and collection of waste) and that consideration be given to moving towards carbon neutrality and sustainable design. Target Date: Updated guidelines published in The Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan October 2010 Partners: AC’s P&E Services, Community Councils, the Scottish Government Lead Contact: Head of Service, Planning Policy and Environment, AC Action Origin: Stonehaven 2020, Newtonhill, Muchalls and Cammachmore Planning for Real

D7 Encourage the engagement of local people in the Development Planning process

a) Ensure that community councils receive appropriate information, training and continuing support to perform their remit in terms of consulting on planning applications Target Date: First round of training March 2010, review Sept 2010 Partners: LCPG, Planning AID, AC’s K & M Area Manager Lead Contact: CPO Action Origin: Stonehaven 2020, Planning for Real, Harbour Day Consultation, requests from Community Councils b) Raise awareness within local communities as to how individuals and groups can participate in public consultations for proposed developments on the preferred bid sites identified in The Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan Target Date: Action plan produced July 2010 Partners: Portlethen Parks Group, LCPG Lead Contact: CPO Action Origin: Stonehaven 2020, Planning for Real exercises, Harbour Day Consultation, DDI 2007 and 2009 c) Encourage the adoption of The National Standards of Community Engagement by AC’s Planning and Environmental Service and Property Developers Target Date: Action Plan Produced July 2010 Partners: LCPG

Lead Contact: CPO Sustainable Environment Action Origin: Stonehaven 2020, Planning for Real exercises, Harbour Day Consultation, DDI 2007 and 2009

D8 In partnership with the community, coordinate emergency response procedures and develop a long-term flood prevention strategy

a) use local knowledge and feedback following the 2009 flooding to inform procedures b) engage also with communities not directly affected in 2009 Target Date: Coordinated strategy by December 2010 Partners: AC, GP, GFRS, SEPA, Scottish Water, Fettercairn Flood Prevention Group, KINCARDINE & community members MEARNS Lead Contact: K&M Area Manager, AC COMMUNITY Action Origin: Concern following floods in October/November 2009 PLAN 2010 – 2014 49 D9 Protect, enhance and make open and green spaces in the area more accessible to everyone in our communities

a) Areas of Portlethen Moss will be protected and a community woodland area by Downies Railway Bridge in Portlethen will be developed through innovative partnership working Target Date: Tree planting March 2010, further phases thereafter Partners: Portlethen Moss Conservation Group, AC’s P & E Services and Landscape Services, local businesses (Talisman, Petrofac), The Forestry Commission, Scottish National Heritage Lead Contact: Environment Planner South, AC Action Origin: DDI 2009, Newtonhill, Muchalls & Cammachmore Planning for Real b) The Causey Mounth will be protected and where possible sections of the route will be developed and enhanced through the Development Planning and Core Path Planning process Target Date: Dependent on resources becoming available Partners: AC’s P&E Service, Newtonhill, Muchalls and Cammachmore Community Council Lead Contact: Environment Planner South, AC Action Origin: DDI 2009, Newtonhill, Muchalls & Cammachmore Planning for Real

D10 Secure funding and implement the permanent solution for Bervie Braes, Stonehaven Target Date: Review March 2011 Partners: AC, Scottish Government Lead Contact: K & M Area Manager, AC Action Origin: Previous and recent landslips

D11 Community-based renewable energy projects that generate income for a Community Trust Fund to support further renewable energy projects and wider local needs will be developed in Stonehaven

Sustainable Energy Association Stonehaven (SEAS) are using their completed feasibility study and further community engagement exercises to develop a number of specific projects from 2010

Sustainable Environment Target Date: Engagement complete 2010 Targets set, if appropriate, 2010 Partners: SEAS, AC, local community groups Lead Contact: Director/representatives of SEAS Action Origin: Awareness of community-based projects in other parts of the world with ownership of renewable energy sources and the increasing government and European support available for such initiatives

D12 Support the development of a Community Trust that will distribute funds generated by a new Wind farm at Tullo to local projects KINCARDINE & MEARNS Target Date: July 2010 Partners: Community Councils, AC, MAP, KMAP, Eneco, COMMUNITY Councillors PLAN Lead Contact: MAP 2010 – 2014 Action Origin: Income being donated by Eneco 50 D13 In response to youth consultations in 2009, the LCPG will conduct further research into where park lighting is required across the area and find a sustainable solution Target Date: Report on situation and potential solutions presented to the Youth Forums by March 2011 Partners: All partners in the LCPG Lead Contact: Community Focus Officer, Grampian Police, Stonehaven Action Origin: Mearns Youth Consultation

D14 Support community facilities, businesses and households to become more energy efficient

a) Encourage and support the adoption of bio-mass and other renewable energy sources b) Promote funding sources such as The Energy Saving Trust, CARES, The Carbon Trust, and the various EU funds c) Review the support required by village halls in the transition to more sustainable energy consumption d) Delivery of Moving Mearns Forward – a sustainability conference – in March 2010 e) Delivery of Energy Aware Road shows across the area f) Work with SCARF to aim to eradicate fuel poverty across Aberdeenshire by 2016 through initiatives directed at improving energy efficiency in housing across all tenures and at reducing fuel costs for Aberdeenshire residents Target Date: Demonstrated increase in awards from above funds by February 2011 Report on village halls by August 2010 Road shows by 2011 Partners: AC, SEAS, MAP, KMAP, K&M Village Halls Association, TraM, CVSA (C & S), SCARF Lead Contact: Renewable Energy Development Officer and Strategic Development Officer (Private Sector), Housing, AC Action Origin: Scottish Government targets, community impetus towards sustainable energy sources, 28% of Aberdeenshire residents are living in fuel poverty according to the Scottish House Condition Survey results (November 2009)

D15 Improve public awareness of transport options that reduce our carbon footprint Sustainable Environment a) Promote travel planning to businesses and others organisations across the area b) Build on the good practice demonstrated by local primary schools to develop travel plans by promoting their uptake in the three local academies c) Encourage walking, cycling, public transport and car sharing across the area through the promotion of initiatives such as No Excuse Zones, Bike Week, National Liftshare Day and European Mobility Week d) Promote the financial assistance potentially available to promote sustainable travel from NESTRANS and Aberdeenshire Council KINCARDINE & e) Promote the use of existing video conferencing facilities by communities and MEARNS Community Planning partners. Target Date: Travel Plan workshop in Badentoy May 2010 COMMUNITY Improved cycle route information by July 2010 PLAN Academies in draft stage of travel planning by end 2011 2010 – 2014 51 Partners: AC’s T&I Service, NESTRANS, local businesses and schools Lead Contact: Strategy Manager, T&I Service, AC Action Origin: DDI 2009, local and national targets

D16 Celebrate the hard work and good practice that schools in Kincardine and Mearns have demonstrated to earn such high levels of success within the Eco Schools Initiative Target Date: Autumn 2010 Partners: Local Schools, LCPG Lead Contact: CPO Action Origin: Local pride in the work of teachers and pupils

D17 Investigate the potential for more spaces, such as allotments, community gardens, kitchens and cafes, for people to come together as communities to perform sustainable activities

a) Lobby for improved provision of such areas within new developments b) Improve the use of existing spaces c) Identify opportunities for social enterprises that could deliver such spaces Target Date: Report on social enterprises and potential sites by end 2010 Partners: LCPG Lead Contact: CPO Action Origin: Findings from local WIM events suggesting that social isolation is a dominant feature of life for those with learning disabilities and that the number of people who suffer to varying degrees with mental health issues is growing Sustainable Environment

KINCARDINE & MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN 2010 – 2014 52 E Developing Our Partnership

Working together to make our partnerships as effective and efficient as possible.

For an explanation of acronyms and abbreviations please see pages 10 and 11.

E1 The Community Planning Group will formally review their membership

a) Assess the group’s remit and how effectively it is being met b) If appropriate, use the findings to amend the membership Target Date: Review complete by May 2010 Membership changes implemented end June 2010 Partners: LCPG Lead Contact: CPO Action Origin: Concerns raised at review workshop over gaps in representation on this group

E2 Design and deliver a Community Planning Communications Strategy in Kincardine and Mearns that effectively informs and engages all those who are living and working in our communities a) Establish a baseline measure of current communications and the extent of community engagement in the area b) Design a communications system that delivers the right information to the right people c) Develop the K&M section on the www.ouraberdeenshire.org.uk site so that it becomes a useful tool for those of us working in this area Target Date: Baseline measure report August 2010 Strategy designed end 2010, adopted June 2011, reviewed Feb 2012 Partners: All community planning partners Lead Contact: CPO Action Origin: Community Plan Review Workshop November 2009

KINCARDINE & MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN

Shaping Aberdeenshire event, Portlethen 2010 – 2014 53 E3 Across the Community Planning partnership develop an overview and forward plan for community engagement to ensure that

a) all areas of our communities are engaged effectively and according to The National Standards of Community Engagement b) a model is developed for ensuring that issues identified through consultation and engagement are addressed through partnership planning c) any action or lack of action resulting from consultation or engagement is clearly communicated back to communities d) the coastal regeneration area is targeted for detailed needs assessment e) community participation is increased through local focus groups that develop community profiles and action plans Target Date: Working group September 2010. Engagement plan December 2010 Mechanism for sharing information end 2010. Progress review July 2011 Partners: All community planning lead partners Lead Contact: CPO Action Origin: Gaps in consultation, Community Planning principles and National Standards of Community Engagement

E4 Support the capacity of Community Councils and strengthen their participation in the Community Planning Partnership

a) Support the provision of appropriate training b) Improve communication between Community Councils and the rest of the Community Planning structure Target Date: Establish improved communication procedures end 2010 Review of training needs by November 2010 Partners: Community Councils, AC’s CLD service, Community Planning partnership’s Developing our Partnership Theme Forum Lead Contact: LCPG representative for Community Councils Action Origin: Community Plan Review Workshop November 2009 Developing our Partnership

KINCARDINE & MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN 2010 – 2014 54 E5 Increase the understanding by partners of each others’ work and share good practice. a) alternate the host venue of LCPG meetings b) include an introductory tour to the partner organisations Target Date: From June 2010 Partners: LCPG Lead Contact: CPO Action Origin: Need for a strong, effective partnership

E6 Monitor funding applications and publicise the funding brought into K & M through the work of community planning partners on the www.ouraberdeenshire.org.uk website Target Date: June 2010 Partners: All Community Planning lead partners Lead Contact: CPO Action Origin: K&M Community Planning mapping exercise

E7 Raise the understanding of Community Planning and encourage greater active participation in the growing Community Planning network

a) Develop and distribute Community Planning induction packs to appropriate staff and volunteers at all partner organisations b) Develop and strengthen links with greater numbers of organisations and partnerships working in the area c) Give recognition to examples of good Community Planning Target Date: Induction packs June 2011 Demonstrable increase in numbers of organisations in the local Community Planning network each year until 2014 Partners: All Community Planning Partners Lead Contact: LCPG Action Origin: Developing our Partnership Theme Forum

E8 Conduct a review of the procedure for producing the Community Plan in order to develop an improved process and increasingly useful document Target Date: December 2010 Partners: LCPG Lead Contact: CPO Action Origin: Learning from the process of developing this plan Developing our Partnership

E9 Encourage and enhance activism in K & M communities: a) Engage and support communities to assist in the completion of meaningful Commu- nity Profiles, Regeneration Priority Area to be a priority, all completed by 2014 b) Deliver community activist training and support volunteers, increase the skills and knowledge of a range of individuals active in their community and offer accreditation and recognition, 2010-2011 KINCARDINE & MEARNS Target Date: Included above Partners: LCPG COMMUNITY Lead Contact: CLD Team Leader, AC PLAN Action Origin: CLD strategy 2010 – 2014 55 7 How Are We Doing?

Wherever possible, performance indicators for the actions contained within the Plan have been identified and progress will be measured against these on a six monthly basis. Progress reports will be made available on the Kincardine and Mearns pages of our Community Planning website: www.ouraberdeenshire.org.uk/kincardinemearns Contact us: The Community Planning Group in Kincardine and Mearns Aberdeenshire Council • Kincardine and Mearns Area Manager. • Area Committee Officer Area Manager’s Office, Viewmount, Arduthie Road, Stonehaven AB39 2DQ Tel: 01569 768206 • Community Learning & Development, Team Leader South Portlethen Community Centre, Portlethen Academy, Bruntland Road, Portlethen AB12 4QL Tel: 01224 786198

Council for Voluntary Services, Aberdeenshire (Central and South) • Development Worker 42 – 46 Barclay Street, 3rd Floor, Stonehaven AB39 2AX Tel: 01569 668055

Community Councils • Representative of Community Councils currently from Mearns Community Council Contactable through: Area Manager’s Office, Viewmount, Arduthie Road, Stonehaven AB39 2DQ Tel: 01569 768206 KINCARDINE & Grampian Fire and Rescue Service MEARNS • Station Manager COMMUNITY Aberdeenshire Command, Service Headquarters, 19 North Anderson Drive, Aberdeen PLAN AB15 6TP 2010 – 2014 Tel: 079662 60156 56 Grampian Police • Area Inspector Kincardine and Mearns Kincardine and Mearns Police Station, Dunnottar Avenue, Stonehaven AB39 2JD Tel: 0845 600 5 700.

Kincardine and Mearns Area Partnership • Chairperson & Development Worker 42 – 46 Barclay Street, 3rd Floor, Stonehaven AB39 2AX Tel: 01569 763246 Mob: 0754 386 4335

NHS Grampian • Public Health Coordinator South Locality Manager Kincardine & Westhill Arduthie Lodge, Kincardine Community Hospital, Kirkton Road, Stonehaven AB39 2QJ Tel: 01569 792074 Tel:01569 792 061

The Community Planning Group in Kincardine and Mearns is supported by two part-time Community Planning Officers. Emma Kidd [email protected] Tel: 01569 768327 Mobile: 07979 708132 Karelia Wright [email protected] Tel: 01569 768327 Mobile 07500 124479

They are based at The Area Manager’s Office, KINCARDINE & Viewmount, Arduthie Road, Stonehaven AB39 2DQ MEARNS COMMUNITY PLAN 2010 – 2014 57 Produced by Aberdeenshire Council GDT12404 June 2010