Recent surveys reveal widespread concerns about the cleanliness of major towns in Aberdeenshire.

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The latest health check of Aberdeenshire’s major town centres has revealed alarming cleanliness issues that residents and businesses have been voicing for years. Conducted annually, this comprehensive survey assesses the vitality and viability of the region’s communities, with a particular focus on the cleanliness of public spaces.
The findings indicate a pressing need for improvements across various towns, highlighting a shared concern among residents regarding the state of their local environments.
Survey insights reveal common cleanliness concerns
In total, 22 towns underwent a thorough evaluation, including Aberdeenshire’s nine principal settlements.
The results showed that while there are positive aspects to each town, the issue of cleanliness emerged as a significant concern. Residents expressed frustration over the state of pavements, particularly in coastal towns like Peterhead and Fraserburgh, where bird mess has become a prevalent issue. One resident described the pavements in Peterhead as “shocking” and “totally filthy,” emphasizing the need for more frequent cleaning, especially during the summer months when bird fouling is at its peak.
Community feedback drives the call for action
Fraserburgh residents echoed similar sentiments, with many calling for better maintenance of pavements to ensure they are free from bird droppings and weeds. The community’s desire for cleaner streets is not just about aesthetics; it is believed that improved cleanliness could enhance the overall attractiveness of the town centre and encourage more visitors. In Banff, while some praised the town’s cleanliness, others pointed out the need for weeding and removal of bird mess, indicating a divided perception among residents.
Efforts to improve cleanliness across Aberdeenshire
Macduff also received negative feedback regarding its cleanliness, with residents advocating for a general cleanup to enhance the town’s appeal. The Aberdeenshire Council’s health check process involves gathering background information, conducting public surveys, and site visits to assess foot traffic and cleanliness. This year, the council’s findings have prompted discussions about the need for a more proactive approach to maintaining public spaces.
In contrast, towns like Inverurie and Ellon received positive ratings for their cleanliness, with residents expressing satisfaction with the state of their pavements. However, even in these towns, there were calls for minor improvements, such as addressing weed growth along pavement edges. The overall sentiment among residents is clear: while some towns are faring better than others, there is a collective desire for cleaner, more appealing public spaces across Aberdeenshire.
As Aberdeenshire Council’s head of planning and economy, Paul Macari, noted, these regular health checks provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of town centres. The feedback from residents will be instrumental in shaping future development plans and ensuring that the region’s towns remain vibrant and welcoming for both locals and visitors alike.