Plans for a radical shake-up of Peterhead town centre have been slammed by a councillor – but generally welcomed by residents.
A consortium of consultants and architects was tasked by Aberdeenshire Council to put together a blueprint for the future of the Buchan port.
The extensive action plan is aimed at making the main central shopping area more attractive to visitors, businesses and young families, as well as repairing Peterhead’s tarnished reputation.
After more than a year in the pipeline, the proposals have now gone on public display. Feedback from the consultation, which continues today and tomorrow, will be used to update the plan and make alterations.
Around 80 people have already visited the exhibition at the Trading Post on Marischal Street.
Audrey Michie, town centre executive for Aberdeenshire Council, said that, so far, the response from residents had been very positive.
“We’re delighted that so many people have come along to get involved,” she said. “It is very important that we work with the public on this.”
On Tuesday, members of the Buchan area committee were asked for their views on the plan, which was spearheaded by Inverness-based HRI Architects.
The councillors agreed not to comment until the public has had its say.
However, one has broken ranks by condemning the report in his newsletter. Independent councillor Alan Buchan described the plan as “deeply disappointing” and said a “huge amount of public money had been wasted on this non-event”. He stated there was nothing to address the issue of deprivation in Peterhead.
The plan takes into account the new council headquarters at St Peter Street. Concerns are raised that, once officials moved into the new base, the area around their old HQ, Arbuthnot House, could lose its vitality. They say the building could become a luxury hotel and surrounding Broad Street filled with arcades, kiosks and cafes.
The public consultation continues today from noon to 7pm and tomorrow from 10am to 4pm.