An at risk north-east respite centre has been given “unanimous” support from a group of Aberdeenshire counillors.
Banff and Buchan Area Committee showed support for the Respite Bungalow on Robertson Road yesterday and have asked for a report from the Integration Joint Board (IJB).
It was announced earlier this year that the facility, which is run by the Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership, was to undergo a review.
Speaking after the digital meeting, councillor Charles Buchan said: “It makes my heart soar when I speak to the parents of the service users, they really are doing their best to keep the facility here in Fraserburgh.”
Councillor Brian Topping also said he wants to see “the facility stay open for current and future users”.
He said: “People from Banff, Macduff and the surrounding area use the Respite Bungalow and in a town the size of Fraserburgh, people need proper facilities on their door step and they don’t need the ones we have here taken away.”
Despite the area committee’s enthusiasm, the final decision will still be made by the IJB.
Wendy Delgarno’s brother attends the facility and she launched an online petition to keep the facility open.
Her mother, Linda McCalman, also released a paper petition and the two have a combined total of more than 2,000 signatures.
She said it’s “fantastic news” that councillors support the cause.
At last month’s meeting, Mr Buchan raised an emergency motion urging the views of Fraserburgh families and members of the public to be considered by health managers.
Health bosses have previously stated “no decisions about the future of the Robertson Road respite facility has been made”.
