Police Report - December 2021

We have just received the December report from our Community Policing Team: 

This report covers progress we have made in dealing with your priorities for the Braeside & Mannofield Community Council area during December 2021.

Community Policing Priorities

Antisocial behaviour, Violence and Disorder:
I am pleased to report there have been no reports of Anti-social behaviour this month in the Braeside and Mannofield Ward. That said we are not complacent nor naïve that low level anti-social behaviour goes on unreported, as such we continue to be out actively patrolling the beat.

Acquisitive Crime:
I am again pleased to report that there have been no reported acquisitive crimes this month in the Braeside and Mannofield Ward. This is welcome news but is no time to be complacent, as acquisitive crime continues in other areas of the City. 

In that vein I continue to encourage us all to remain vigilant, to report anything suspicious via 101 or 999 in an emergency, passing our call handlers as much detail as possible, particularly around descriptions, colour of clothing worn and / or any vehicles they may be using, especially the registration number if at all possible.

Road Safety & Road Crime:
There have been no specific incidents of note in relation to Road Safety / Road Crime. We continue to work with partners in response to specific complaints in terms of road traffic offences. Residents in the areas affected by antisocial driving are encouraged to contact Police on 101 at the time, to report incidents and provide as much description as possible of the vehicle(s)/person(s) in order for us to take positive action.

Community Engagement Reassurance
Online Fraud
The vast majority of all frauds now use computers or technology in some way. There are a number of ways cyber criminals can attack you and your device. They may search the internet to find insecure devices, send an email containing malicious software or even set up fake websites.

How to protect yourself
Be wary about the personal information you post online and ensure you check your privacy settings on social media sites.

 Use three random words to make sure your password is strong. 

 Storing passwords in your browser is a good tactic.

 Password managers are a good idea.

 If available, set up two factor authentication.

 Use anti-virus software and update it regularly.

More information can be found via the Police Scotland website.
https://www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information/internet-safety/keep-secure-online/

As always, if you see or are the victim of crime please do report this as below.

Follow us on Twitter @NorthEPolice #WestEndCPT 

Also available are the three following contact email addresses for the West End:

AiryhallBroomhillGarthdeeCPT@Scotland.pnn.police.uk
HazleheadAshleyQueensCrossCPT@Scotland.pnn.police.uk
TorryFerryhillCPT@scotland.pnn.police.uk

Contact Us
Please also remember you can communicate with us using any of the following:
🕾 101 – Non emergency;
🖱 Twitter - @NorthEPolice;
🖱 Facebook – www.facebook.com/NorthEastPoliceDivision;
🖱 Web – www.scotland.police.uk;
🕾 999 – Emergency;
🕾 0800 555 111 - Crimestoppers.

Season Greetings

 Merry Christmas and a Happy, Safe and COVID free New Year to all

Craft Fair - 4 December

This weekend, if you are looking for somewhere to go and somewhere to get unusual Christmas presents, then head down to Airyhall Community Centre on Countesswells Road.

The Christmas Craft Fair will run from 2pm-5pm on Saturday 4 December and there will be some amazing crafters attending to showcase and sell their wares.

As wells as home made crafts there will be teas and coffees, home bakes, jewellery and more on sale.

Why not head down to the Community Centre and support this years Craft Fair.  

Another good thing about it.....entry is FREE

Spaces for People - Timber Decking and Parklet Redistribution

At the Aberdeen City Council City Growth and Resources Committee of Friday 12th Nov the Committee voted to remove the majority of the Spaces for People infrastructure in the city centre by the end of the month.

The decking and the other wooden structures used in the Spaces for People initiative are now being offered to Community Groups.

The following items have been uplifted from the city centre and placed in ACC storage meantime. The focus for distribution will be on groups within Aberdeen’s regeneration areas, and the units are likely to suit allotments and community gardens for a variety of uses and would become the property of those groups thereafter.

The units comprise:

* 2.4m x 2.4m timber decking
* 1.6 x 2.4m timber decking
* 0.8m x 2.4m bench and planters
* small number of triangular shaped decks 2.4m x 2.4m

If your community group have a use and would like to apply, the following information will be required

The name of the group

The proposed use of the items

Commitment to own and maintain thereafter

The draft redistribution list is to be presented for ACC Administration Leaders consideration, and an early call on interest would be invaluable.

Emails of application or for further details should be directed to: nmcdowell@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Let's Get Digital Survey

Aberdeen City Health and Social Care Partnership are inviting residents to take part in their Lets Get Digital Survey.

The survey looks at an individual’s access to digital devices, their confidence and skills using these devices and individual’s knowledge on where to go for support. It also looks at any potential barriers someone might face when becoming more digital.

They hope that the results of this survey will give them an understanding of where citizens of Aberdeen currently view their level of digital skills and identify areas or gaps which may require further support.

Please click here to access the survey.

Police Report - November 2021

The latest report from the Community Policing Team has been issued:

Community Policing Priorities

Antisocial behaviour, Violence and Disorder:
On Tuesday 2 November officers spoke to and warned a young person in front of parents for throwing stones at a vehicle on Morningside Gardens. 

On Friday 5 November officers were called to reports of Fireworks being set off from the Playpark on Countesswells Park Avenue. No Persons were traced by officers who continued to provide patrols in the area.

Enquiries are ongoing into the vandalism of a parked car on Deeside Crescent, where it was scratched sometime between Monday the 22 and Thursday 25 November.

Officers are making enquiries into the window being smashed at a property on Deeside Gardens that has occurred in the small hours of Friday 26 November.  Anyone with information is asked to contact Police quoting incident number 0427 of the 26 November.

Acquisitive Crime:
Enquiries are ongoing into the Housebreaking with intent to steal that has occurred at a property on Wellbrae Terrace whereby damage was caused to a gate and garage door. This has occurred overnight from Sunday 21 November into Monday 22 November. Incident 1078 of the 22nd relates if anyone has any information.

Between Friday 26 and Saturday 27 November a gent’s mountain bike was stolen from outside an address on Great Western Road, Aberdeen where the lock had been cut. Enquiries are ongoing.

I encourage us all to remain vigilant. If you see something you think is suspicious please contact Police either online via the Police Scotland Internet site ‘contact us’ page or via 101 (999 if an emergency), passing as much detail as possible on what is suspicious, descriptions of persons, any vehicle descriptions particularly the registration mark if at all possible.

Road Safety & Road Crime:

There have been no specific incidents of note in relation to Road Safety / Road Crime. We continue to work with partners in response to specific complaints in terms of road traffic offences. Residents in the areas affected by antisocial driving are encouraged to contact Police on 101 at the time, to report incidents and provide as much description as possible of the vehicle(s)/person(s) in order for us to take positive action.

Community Engagement & Reassurance
WINTER ROAD SAFETY FOR PEDESTRIANS / CYCLISTS AND DRIVERS

Advice for pedestrians
Advice if you are out walking during winter:

• Dress for the weather by wearing reflective or bright-coloured clothing so other road users can see you when it's dark or visibility is poor
• If you are walking home late at night, make sure someone knows where you're going and when
• Vehicles can take up to ten times longer to stop on slippery road surfaces so take extra care crossing the road
• Stick to pedestrian crossings. If there are no crossings nearby, find a place with a clear view and wait for long gaps in the traffic before crossing the road
• Don't cross the road between parked vehicles, unless it can't be avoided then take extra care (look out for vehicles that suddenly pull out or reverse)
• Never cross the road behind a bus
• If there is no pavement, keep to the right hand side of the road so you can see traffic coming towards you.

Advice for cyclists
Advice to consider if you are cycling during winter:

• Make sure your bike can be seen by people on the road
• Use a good set of front and rear lights (white at the front, red at the back)
• Wear clothes that help you be seen on your bike, such as bright and light reflective items
• Pay attention to road signs, markings and particularly red lights
• Do not cycle on the pavements, they may be slippery and can also endanger pedestrians
• Be mindful of the effects poor weather can have on other road users
• Make sure you know about the dangers around you
• Cars can take twice as long to stop in wet weather
• Braking can be unpredictable in ice and snow.

Advice for drivers
Advice for drivers during winter:

• Make sure your car is ready for winter
• Check that your tyres, brakes, windscreens, wiper blades and windows are free from defects and clean
• Drive to the road conditions. Road conditions can change without warning, stopping distances will be affected by the weather
• Make sure your windows are clean and aren't misted up
• Make sure there is no snow and ice on your windows before you drive
• When the roads are icy, drive at a slow speed in a high gear
• Accelerate and brake very gently
• Driving distracted (for example, using a Sat Nav) can cause additional stress. It is dangerous to yourself, passengers and other road users.

As always, if you see or are the victim of crime please do report this as below.

Follow us on Twitter @NorthEPolice #WestEndCPT
Also available are the three following contact email addresses for the West End:

AiryhallBroomhillGarthdeeCPT@Scotland.pnn.police.uk
HazleheadAshleyQueensCrossCPT@Scotland.pnn.police.uk
TorryFerryhillCPT@scotland.pnn.police.uk

Contact Us
Please also remember you can communicate with us using any of the following:
🕾 101 – Non emergency;
🖱 Twitter - @NorthEPolice;
🖱 Facebook – www.facebook.com/NorthEastPoliceDivision;
🖱 Web – www.scotland.police.uk;
🕾 999 – Emergency;
🕾 0800 555 111 - Crimestoppers.

Vaccinations and Booster now Bookable on-line

If you’re aged 50 to 59, or aged 16 or over and an unpaid carer or living in an immunosuppressed household, you can book your COVID-19 Vaccine Booster and flu vaccine online. 

You will find your vaccination user name on a previous appointment letter or you can recover it. www.nhsinform.scot/vaccinebooking

Minutes of Meeting - 23 November 2021

The minutes of the November meeting of the Community Council, held on Tuesday 23rd can now be viewed or download by clicking here.

There is no meeting of the Community Council in December with the next meeting, again to be held on Zoom, on Tuesday 18 January 2022. Anyone wishing to attend should contact the secretary by email (click here) for access details.

All Welcome

Community Council Meeting - 23 November 2021

The next virtual meeting of the Community Council is at 7pm on Tuesday 23 November 2021 using the Zoom video programme. 

The Community Council is still looking for new members and anyone interested or who would like more information is encouraged to come along to the meeting.

If you wish to attend please contact the secretary by emailing bandmcommcouncil@gmail.com for the Zoom room identity and password.

The Agenda can be viewed by clicking here.

ALL WELCOME

Parliamentary Recognition

Our thanks to Liam Kerr MSP for highlighting the work done by the Community Council and Airyhall Primary School in our recent "Bells for Bikes" initiative.

http://bandmcommcouncil.blogspot.com/2021/09/bells-for-bikes.html

The motion, tabled at the Scottish Parliament on Monday 1st November, supported by 19 other MSP's, was;

Braeside and Mannofield Bells for Bikes Initiative
Submitted by: Liam Kerr, North East Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party.
Date lodged: Monday, November 1, 2021

Supported by: Colin Beattie, Miles Briggs, Donald Cameron, Sharon Dowey, Russell Findlay, Meghan Gallacher, Jamie Greene, Rachael Hamilton, Bill Kidd, Dean Lockhart, Douglas Lumsden, Edward Mountain, Douglas Ross, Dr. Sandesh Gulhane, Alexander Stewart, Paul Sweeney, Mercedes Villalba, Tess White, Brian Whittle

"That the Parliament commends Braeside and Mannofield Community Council Bells for Bikes initiative, alongside Airyhall Primary School, which provides bike bells for young cyclists to improve their safety; notes the importance of this project, in encouraging young cyclists to be safe while being active; recognises the great work councils do at a local level, as a vital part of communities, and hopes the great work by Braeside and Mannofield Community Council will continue."

Whilst it is never sought or expected, recognition is always appreciated.

Fire and Smoke Alarms - Avoid Scams

Trading Standards Scotland have issued the following warning in view of the potential for scammers and rogue traders to take advantage of the those unsure of the new legislation and installation deadline for fitting linked fire alarms in homes. 

Failing to follow the guidelines may lead to you paying inflated costs for inferior products and fitting or to becoming a victim of a financial scam. 

The advice highlights where you can get trusted information. Always remember to get a minimum of 2 quotes for any potential work from reliable and trusted traders and if needed seek advice from someone you trust.  Further information can be found on the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Trading Standards leaflets which are attached and on the following links below

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
https://www.firescotland.gov.uk/your-safety/at-home/home-fire-safety-visit/

https://www.firescotland.gov.uk/your-safety/at-home/alarms/

Scottish Government
https://www.gov.scot/publications/fire-and-smoke-alarms-in-scottish-homes/

Police Report - October 2021

The Community Policing Team have just sent us an update on activities for the month of October;

Antisocial behaviour, Violence and Disorder:  

Officers are investigating the damage to a car on Great Western Road near Craigton Road that occurred overnight from Wednesday 13th into Thursday 14th October.  Anyone with information is asked to contact Police on 101 quoting incident 0561 of the 13th.

This month with the nights getting longer and colder we have not had any reported calls of anti-social behaviour involving our young people.  That said I accept that this may be that nothing has been reported.  Officers continue to patrol areas where we have history of anti-social behaviour and will deal proportionately with any issues they detect.

Acquisitive Crime:

Officers are following a positive line of enquiry into a theft by housebreaking that occurred in the small hours of Thursday 28th October in the Anderson Drive area of Aberdeen, with a similar incident of persons acting suspiciously having been sighted in the Thorngrove Crescent area around the same time.  Officers continue to patrol across the area and will investigate any suspicious activity.  

We continue to urge everyone to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity and take simple steps to protect properties/vehicles/belongings, namely by keeping doors and windows locked and valuables out of sight.

Road Safety & Road Crime:
On Friday 22nd October officers from the Westend and Hazelhead CPT supported from Road

Policing carried out a day of action on various roads identified across our Community Policing Team area from Craigton Road to the North Deeside Road, Culter.  As a result 23 motorists were stopped, with 16 being charged/warned regarding minor Road Traffic Offences, including 2 reported to the Procurator Fiscal. 

We continue to work with partners in response to specific complaints in terms of road traffic offences.  Residents in the areas affected by antisocial driving are encouraged to contact Police on 101 at the time, to report incidents and provide as much description as possible of the vehicle(s)/person(s) in order for us to take positive action. 

Community Engagement & Reassurance
Aberdeen City Council Community Planning recently carried out their City Voice Survey as part of their community engagement.  This aligns and feeds into the Local Outcome Improvement Plan (LOIP) projects.

As part of this survey the question was asked around how safe you feel in your local area. The results below show that of the respondents 95% felt very safe or fairly safe.

The question was asked:   How safe do you feel in your local area?  and the returns were:

                        Number        Percent

Very safe         234                42.8%
Fairly safe       287                52.5%
Not safe           26                  4.8%
Total                547                100.0%

From a Policing perspective this is very encouraging, but we do not rest, as our aim to continually provide the best service we can with the resources at our disposal.  Please do continue to take simple steps to keep yourself and your properties safe.  There is a wealth of information on the Police Scotland Internet site that can be accessed from the following link https://www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information/ .

As always, if you see or are the victim of crime please do report this as below.

Follow us on Twitter @NorthEPolice #WestEndCPT
Also available are the three following contact email addresses for the West End:

AiryhallBroomhillGarthdeeCPT@Scotland.pnn.police.uk
HazleheadAshleyQueensCrossCPT@Scotland.pnn.police.uk
TorryFerryhillCPT@scotland.pnn.police.uk

Contact Us
Please also remember you can communicate with us using any of the following:
🕾 101 – Non emergency;
🖱 Twitter - @NorthEPolice;
🖱 Facebook – www.facebook.com/NorthEastPoliceDivision;
🖱 Web – www.scotland.police.uk;
🕾 999 – Emergency;
🕾 0800 555 111 - Crimestoppers.

Parking restrictions Countesswells Avenue

Aberdeen City Council have advised of the following temporary parking restriction in Countesswells Avenue;

From 4am on 7 December, there will be a temporary prohibition of waiting on West side of Countesswells Avenue, between its junctions with Countesswells Road and the entrance to the new "Dandara" development. 

The no-waiting restrictions will be demarcated by the use of no-waiting cones. Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner’s expense. The measure is necessary to protect public safety during ACC footway

The restrictions are in force until 5pm on 04 March 2022

Minutes of Meeting - 26 October 2021

The minutes of the latest meeting of the Community Council, held on Tuesday 26 October 2021 can now be viewed or download by clicking here.

The next Community Council meeting will, again, be held on Zoom on Tuesday 23 November 2021. Anyone wishing to attend should contact the secretary by email (click here) for access details.

All Welcome

New members needed

The Community Council elections in October returned only six members to the Braeside and Mannofield Community Council.  This is the absolute minimum required to establish the Community Council.

Should any of the current six members withdraw then the Community Council will cease to exist.

The Council has the authority to co-opt two members this year and are seeking volunteers to join them.

The Council meet monthly (except July and December) on the 4th Tuesday of the month and meetings last for up to two hours.  At the moment the meetings are virtual, via Zoom, but with a hope to getting back to face to face meetings in the early part of next year.

The Agenda for discussion has, in the past included issues such as the sale of land at Airyhall, the provision of a bench in Springfield Road, amendments to bus routes, monitoring and action on planning issues and assistance to local schools and scout troops.

If you can spare a couple of hours a month, live within our area and want to help your community or you just want to find out more about being a Community Councillor, then please contact the secretary on bandmcommcouncil@gmail.com 

Drop us an email or come along to the next meeting and see what goes on. We would love to see you.

Defibrillator Scheme

The Community Council was recently approached by St John Ambulance offering to help meet the cost of the provision of a defibrillator in the area.  At their last meeting, members agreed that, with three year elections to form Community Councils, they could not commit to a project that they may not be able to support in the future.  In addition, they noted the need for an electrical feed to the defibrillator housing, and without a premises with an electrical supply, they would have to source the power required.

Although not able to participate, members agreed that this was an excellent initiative and details are published here should any other charity or organisation be interested in following up the St John offer.

"When heart attacks occur, life can be saved by the prompt use of CPR and the immediate availability of a defibrillator.  Anyone of any age, at any time of the day or night may without any warning need emergency interventions.

Is your community prepared? Do you have any defibrillators locally? Are they available 24/7 or in premises closed at night or even in a staff drawer? Are there people locally who know basic CPR?

St John Scotland is a registered Scottish charity dedicated to saving and enhancing life. We can help you with our subsidised schemes to provide such 24/7 defibrillators. Even if you have ones that are not immediately available 24/7 we may be able to help you make them so.

One of the defibrillators we assisted with providing within Aberdeen City was used only a few weeks ago.

If you wish more information this is available on the St John Scotland facebook page (click here) along with how to contact our defibrillator project officer or you can contact the local representative, Clifford Eastmond, OStJ, MD, FRCP, FRCPE, directly by clicking here. Some recent defibrillator projects are on our Facebook pages."

1 Ton Salt Bags

Once again this year, the City Council are offering large bags of salt to communities for use in de-icing pavements and roads when the winter weather sets in.

The salt comes in 1 tonne bags and will be delivered for residents use. Obviously, the bags cannot be dropped in an area of public footway, carriageway or car park as the bag would be susceptible to vandalism, theft or misuse and obstruct the area for pedestrians and vehicles.

In addition, they cannot be dropped on any green areas as the salt would kill the existing vegetation.

If you would like to host a bag for your area, you should email winter@aberdeencity.gov.uk or phone 0300 0200 292.

You will need to be able to give the following details:

· The name of the person who will be responsible for the bag

· Details of a secure location to drop the bag (such as a driveway, locked gate or garage)

and you will need to ensure that the location has 3m width clearance for the delivery lorry and 1.5m2 space to store the bag. 

Requests for a salt bag should be with the council before 1 November, so you don't have long.

Airyhall House Land Sale - Good News

The Community Council have been advised that the sale of the land between Airyhall House and Northcote Lodge has now been completed.

We are delighted to report that we have been advised that it has been purchased by the trustees of Northcote Lodge to protect the setting of Northcote Lodge.  The Trustees plan to leave the land as it is with full public access.

This is the best possible outcome for the community and the environment and the Community Council wishes to thank the Trustees of Northcote House for their consideration and generosity.

As an aside, residents may have noticed a tree having been felled in this plot of land over the past few days.  The tree had been identified as being rotten and was cut down to prevent anyone being injured.

Community Council Meeting - 26 October 2021

The next meeting of the Community Council is at 7pm on Tuesday 26 October 2021 and will, again, be a virtual meeting using the Zoom video programme.  This is the first meeting of the "new" Community Council and anyone who would wish to be co-opted would be made most welcome. 

If you wish to attend please contact the secretary by emailing bandmcommcouncil@gmail.com for the Zoom room identity and password.

The Agenda can be viewed by clicking here.

ALL WELCOME

Local Transport Strategy - Consultation

Aberdeen City Council is starting work on developing its next Local Transport Strategy.

What’s it all about?
The Aberdeen Local Transport Strategy sets out the city’s ambitions for the development of the transport network over a five year period. This includes a vision and objectives for the city’s transport network as well as identifying multiple actions to be completed over the lifespan of the strategy to improve the transport network. It deals with all modes and aspects of transport including walking, wheeling, cycling, public transport, freight, taxis, motorcycles, car sharing, car clubs, car and van use, parking and low carbon fuels as well as the relationship between transport and other areas such as land use, placemaking, the economy, development of communities, health and the environment. It also relies on input from members of the public and stakeholders to ensure it reflects the needs of people.

The process is starting with a Main Issues Consultation. As part of this, the Council are looking to get the views of stakeholders as to what is considered to be the main issues for transport in Aberdeen, currently and in the future. This includes investigating

- What people think are the main problems
- What people think are the main opportunities
- What works well
- What doesn’t work well
- What improvements could be suggested
- What is still relevant from the current Local Transport Strategy
- What else we should take account of when planning the transport network.

The consultation launched on Monday 4th October, and will run for 6 weeks until Sunday 14th November.

To take part, please go to https://consultation.aberdeencity.gov.uk/planning/aberdeen-lts-main-issues

Is there any more information?

More information can be found here;

https://news.aberdeencity.gov.uk/your-chance-to-help-steer-next-local-transport-strategy/ - Press release

https://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/services/roads-transport-and-parking/local-transport-strategy - Local Transport Strategy information

Aberdeen Local Transport Leaflet_0.pdf (aberdeencity.gov.uk) – This is the link to the summary information leaflet for the consultation, providing a snapshot of what has been achieved over the last 5 years, as well as information on how to get involved with the consultation.

Please tell others

What happens next?
The results of this consultation will then inform the draft version of the next Local Transport Strategy which we are planning to start writing in 2022. This will be consulted on too once ready.

Why now?
In its Delivery Plan 2021/22, the Council included the Policy Statement to “Refresh the Local Transport Strategy” and stated that this would follow the review of the Regional Transport Strategy (RTS). As the final RTS is now sitting with the Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity for consideration, work can now start on developing the next Aberdeen Local Transport Strategy (LTS) as several elements can be undertaken ahead of the RTS being adopted.

Any Questions?

If you have any questions please contact 

Alan Simpson | Senior Planner

Aberdeen City Council | Transport Strategy and Programmes 

Strategic Place Planning

Marischal College

Broad Street

Aberdeen

AB10 1AB

Police Report - September 2021

Our local Community policing team have circulated a report on activities in September 2021.

Community Policing Priorities
Antisocial behaviour, Violence and Disorder:

As a result of several calls over Thursday 2nd September regards males carrying out door step sales in an aggressive manner across this and neighbouring Community Council wards, four males were traced and arrested. Two appeared from custody at Court on Friday 3rd September for assault and pedalling offences with a further two charged to appear at Court at a later date in relation to pedalling offences only.

I am grateful to the members of the public who contacted Police to report the incidents in question, with descriptions and direction of travel. I would urge members of the public to remain vigilant and not to engage with door to door sellers unless they can provide proof of ID and company they are working for. No reputable organisation will force anyone to do anything against their will, or rush you into making a decision, or use intimidation to get their own way. If in doubt politely refuse and close/lock your door, if you remain concerned or persons display any form of aggression contact Police immediately.

Officers continue to patrol areas of reported anti-social behaviour involving our young people, this month we received a call relating to young people ringing doorbells and running off in the Deeside

Gardens area.

Officers are making enquiries into the damage of a lock, on a garage, on Duthie Terrace. This has occurred between Monday 6th and Monday 13th September.

Acquisitive Crime:
In the small hours of Wednesday 1st September some bottled milk was stolen from outside a property on Countesswells Road, no persons have been identified as responsible. This appears very opportunistic. 

Sometime between midnight and 7pm on Thursday 2nd September a newly planted tree has been stolen from a communal area in the Thorngrove Crescent area. No persons have been identified and anyone with information is asked to contact Police quoting incident number 1357 of the 3rd September.

Officers continue to patrol across the area and will investigate any suspicious activity. I continue to urge us all to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity and take simple steps to protect our properties/vehicles/belongings, namely by keeping doors and windows locked and valuables out of sight.

Road Safety & Road Crime:
There have been no incidents of note over the reporting period.

We continue to work with partners in response to specific complaints in terms of road traffic offences. Residents in the areas affected by antisocial driving are encouraged to contact Police on 101 at the time, to report incidents and provide as much description as possible of the vehicle(s)/person(s) in order for us to take positive action.

Community Engagement & Reassurance

As the nights get longer, Police Scotland officers from the Westend and Hazelhead Community Policing Team will be carrying out additional hi-visibility foot patrols across the area during the hours of darkness over the coming months as part of the 'After Dark' initiative. Officers will be looking to engage with residents, particularly of properties they find in darkness to provide basic advice on home security.

It is important we keep our properties secure at all times with appropriate lighting during the hours of darkness. Criminals are largely opportunistic and favour targeting poorly lit/dark/insecure properties. Simple measures such as keeping all windows and doors locked, setting your house alarm (if fitted) and switching on your timer lights can make a difference. Unlit houses are an indication that no one is at home. Don't leave car keys, ID cards or valuables near windows, doors or letterboxes, where thieves can reach through to steal them.' 

Follow us on Twitter @NorthEPolice #WestEndCPT
Also available are the three following contact email addresses for the West End:

AiryhallBroomhillGarthdeeCPT@Scotland.pnn.police.uk
HazleheadAshleyQueensCrossCPT@Scotland.pnn.police.uk
TorryFerryhillCPT@scotland.pnn.police.uk

Contact Us
Please also remember you can communicate with us using any of the following:
🕾 101 – Non emergency;
🖱 Twitter - @NorthEPolice;
🖱 Facebook – www.facebook.com/NorthEastPoliceDivision;
🖱 Web – www.scotland.police.uk;
🕾 999 – Emergency;
🕾 0800 555 111 - Crimestoppers.

Community Festive Fund

Aberdeen City Council’s Community Festive Fund is now open for applications and the following information has been released;

The Community Festive Fund was established to encourage organisations and groups to come together within their own communities during the Christmas and Hogmanay period to celebrate community wellbeing and togetherness. The fund can provide a small financial grant to individual community groups and organisations who are arranging a celebration for their local community or continuing to grow and develop an existing event which may already be held within Aberdeen City. 

The funding available for any group or organisation is up to a maximum of £350 for Festive events and £500 for Hogmanay events. Groups should be aware that demand for funding is likely to be greater than the allocation provided by Aberdeen City Council. In such circumstances, funding will be split on a proportionate basis with groups receiving less than originally applied for.

The set criteria, as detailed below, will be applied in a transparent and robust manner, in order to determine whether a group or organisation is eligible for financial support from the Community Festive Fund.

Qualifying Criteria

• The Christmas event must be held between 22nd November and the 30th December 2021 within Aberdeen City.
• The Hogmanay event must be held between 31st December 2021 and 2nd January 2022 within Aberdeen City.
• Only one application per group will be considered.
• Applicants must be a constituted group or organisation.
• Event must take place in a venue within Aberdeen City for the benefit of the local community.
• Event must adhere to any Covid-19 guidance in place at the time.

The funding can be used for the purposes of entertainment, venue hire, transport, staffing, decoration or catering. None of the monies requested or received can be used for the purchase or supply of alcohol at the proposed event. Further details on what is eligible for funding is available within the attached Community Festive Fund Guidance.

Successful applicants will be required to provide receipts for all purchases made up to and including the amount of financial support received from Aberdeen City Council as proof of expenditure. These must be returned no later than 2 weeks after the event takes place.

Funding will only be issued to bank accounts in the name of groups, associations, organisations and representative bodies not individuals accounts.

Following approval by the Enterprise Planning and Infrastructure Committee, the introduction of a “3 strikes” policy means successful group applications will only be granted funding for 3 consecutive years before sitting out a year.

Groups who have submitted applications for support in the past and have then failed to comply with the criteria detailed, including the submission of receipts after the event will have this taken into consideration when applications are being considered for all future funding support.

Failure to comply with any or all of the above criteria will result in a request by Aberdeen City Council for repayment of any funds awarded.

In order to ascertain the level of interest at this time, I would be obliged if you can complete the Community Festive Fund application form by 12 noon on Friday 29th October 2021.

If you have any queries relating to the Community Festive Fund, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01224 522802 or email cityevents@aberdeencity.gov.uk

Please see the Community Festive Fund (click here) guidance for more details. The application form can be found by clicking here. 

Further information can be obtained from Christie Milne on 01224 522802 or email cityevents@aberdeencity.gov.uk  

Minutes of Meeting - 28 September 2021

The latest meeting of the Community Council was held on Tuesday 28 September 2021.  As in the recent past the meeting was held on Zoom.

You can now view or download the minutes of that meeting by clicking here.

The next Community Council meeting will, again, be held on Zoom on Tuesday 26 October 2021. Anyone wishing to attend should contact the secretary by email (see below) for access details.

All Welcome

This will be the first meeting of the new Community Council.  With only 6 members (the minimum required to form a Community Council) we are looking for people to join us.  Although the election process is past, we can co-opt and introduce new members.  Please give it a thought, we'd love to have you with us.  

As usual, we can still be contacted with queries or comments by sending an email to the Secretary - bandmcommcouncil@gmail.com

Bells for Bikes

In April 2020, there were a number of comments from local residents about speeding child cyclists on pavements at Countesswells Road and Springfield Road near Airyhall Primary School, particularly during school opening and closing times. 

Residents reported that speeding cyclists, and on some occasions their parents or guardians, on their way to school cycle were speeding past pedestrians, silently and with inches to spare.

Following discussions with the School the Community Council offered to fund the purchase of bicycle bells to be distributed as part of a road safety message.

This month the school are getting ready to promote their "Bells for Bikes" initiative.  

The school's Junior Road Safety Officers (JRSO) are encouraging cyclists, young and old, to be respectful to others when cycling and to use a bell as a warning when approaching pedestrians.  The donated bells will be given to young cyclists in the school, who do not have bells fitted to their bikes.

For information and updates visit the school twitter page - https://twitter.com/AiryhallSch

The Community Council would like to thank Mrs Houston for her assistance and understanding.

Airyhall House Building Plot

The latest information at hand regarding the sale of the plot of land between Airyhall House and Northcote Lodge is that the plot is being noted as "Under Offer" on the selling agent's website.

There is no information as to the interested parties, or the use for which the site is intended.

The Community Council continue to monitor the planning applications for the area and, to date, there does not appear to be any planning application for the site.

We will update this website as and when there is any fresh information.

UPDATE 30/9/21

Apparently the missives were to be signed on 28th October and that it has been bought to be used as amenity land with no plans to build on the site. There is no information on who has bought it or for how much but that will be in the public domain in due course.

Springfield Road - one way system 4/10 - 17/10

Aberdeen City Council have advised of the following road closure/one way system.

From 4am on 04 October until 5pm on 17 October 2021 there will be a one-way restriction on Springfield Road, Aberdeen, between its junctions with North Deeside Road and Craigton Road. The permitted direction of travel will be Northbound only (ie from North Deeside Road). 

There will also be a prohibition of waiting on either side of the same stretch of carriageway for the duration of the work. The measures are in the interests of public safety during ACC street lighting column replacement works.

They suggest an alternate route : Craigton Road, Great Western Road

Meeting on 28 September 2021 - Agenda

The next meeting of the Community Council is at 7pm on Tuesday 28 September 2021 and will be a virtual meeting using the Zoom video programme.

If you wish to attend, contact the secretary by emailing bandmcommcouncil@gmail.com for the Zoom room identity and password.

The Agenda can be viewed by clicking here.

ALL WELCOME

Visiting Pedlars

There have been a number of reports of  Pedlars in the area.  

A Pedlar is someone who trades as they travel, as distinct from someone who merely travels to trade, for example a person who sells from a portable stand in a street could not claim to be a Pedlar. Pedlars must carry their goods, continually moving from area to area.

Recently, men purporting to be pedlars,  have been calling at doors in the neighbourhood saying that they have just been released from prison and are trying to earn legitimate money by selling various items door to door.  Provided that they have valid Pedlar's certificates there is nothing wrong, however, these particular "gentlemen", turn rude and threatening if their wares are not bought. 

If a pedlar calls at your door and you do not wish to buy anything from them, just politely decline and shut the door.  If they proceed to be rude or threatening then call the Local Community Policing Team and report their conduct.  Sgt McOuat and his team are more than happy to hear from you and to track and trace these pedlars, check their licences and give them a few words of professional advice.

You can contact our Local Community Policing Team by email on AiryhallBroomhillGarthdeeCPT@Scotland.pnn.police.uk

Or by anyone of the following:

  101 – Non emergency;
  Twitter - @NorthEPolice;
  Facebook – www.facebook.com/NorthEastPoliceDivision;
  Web – www.scotland.police.uk;
  999 – Emergency;
  0800 555 111 - Crimestoppers.