The latest Stonehaven Town Partnership (STP) meeting was held in the Old Courtroom on Tuesday 29th April
The meeting started with a presentation by Hilary Fleming, from the Economic Development department of Aberdeenshire Council. She explained that her role encompassed support for people, places and businesses, to promote economic growth. There will be engagement with the community to determine local priorities for service delivery, with a draft plan produced by September. STP members listened, then raised a series of concerns, particularly asking where funding would come from to implement plans, and explaining that the population is cynical about whether their voice is heard. Hilary was thanked for her presentation, and STP will await information about future engagement events.
The Stoney Express
The launch of The Stoney Express is planned for Monday 5th May, and the necessary road closures have been arranged. There are currently two drivers completing their training, but more conductors would be helpful. The plan is to run hourly services at weekends from the end of May, with additional weekday services during school holidays.
Footpaths
A plan was in place to widen the path between Stonehaven War Memorial and Dunnottar Castle, but there was a holdup due to land issues. The new path will allow wheelchair access and will also move the access point to the war memorial to the west side, with a shallower zigzag pathway. This stretch of path also forms part of the Queen’s Jubilee Coastal Path, which will eventually run from St Cyrus to Cullen. The land issues have since been resolved, but the delay means that the plans need to be updated, then the work will go out to tender. Once costs have been established there will be another application to the Ian Findlay Paths Fund, who had previously confirmed funding. It was also suggested that Aberdeenshire Council are asked to incorporate the path into their tourism strategy, as this would make other funding streams available.
Beach Toilets
The signage at the beach toilet building, directing visitors to the nearest public facilities, has not yet been improved as expected. The Area Manager, Tim Stephen, will be contacted for an update. There was much discussion about the beach toilet block, and everyone present agreed that it should be reopened, but the challenges involved are significant, with STP unable to commit due to current volunteer overload. It was finally agreed that a small sub group will meet over the next few weeks and research options.
Courthouse update
A new key system has been installed, following the loss of the original master key. Three new directors have been appointed to the board. Paul Tosh identified that the harling and pointing needs some work, and in the longer term the heating system will need overhauled.
Town Hall Shed
The lean-to shed beside the town hall stores overspill tables and chairs, as well as the Horizon bowsers. It currently needs a new roof and door, and STP are waiting for a quote. However, there was concern raised that this work would not be financially viable, and the option of a replacement was raised. Permission would be needed for any work, due to the location of the shed.
The meeting finished with a brief finance report, and an update on the new website.