Residents hit out at recycling plan for 

Published: 31/07/2010

 By Stacey Horne

 A community council leader, residents and politicians are encouraging people to voice their concerns about a proposed recycling centre for Hazlehead in Aberdeen, which is "not appropriate or practical".

Earlier this year, councillors agreed that the north-west corner of the Grove Nursery in Hazlehead should be the preferred site for Aberdeen’s fifth recycling centre.

The decision was taken despite opposition from the community, who are concerned about the project’s impact on local roads and the site’s proximity to primary and secondary schools in Hazlehead.

Hazlehead has been ranked as one of the top six most popular locations for millionaire residents and if the plans go ahead, the centre will be based near the entrance to the “crown jewel of the city”, Hazlehead Park.

The chairman of Craigiebuckler and Seafield Community Council, William Sell, said:

“The site would have bay-type skips, segregated sections for different types of waste management and new parking bays."

“Noise pollution with reversing beeps, waste contractor vehicles and private cars, vans and other traffic will add to the impact for everyone who lives, works, studies, or visits around this parkland and recreational area."

“Many city-wide location options were discussed, including various sites around Hazlehead including the Grove Nursery site. We (the community council) opposed all sites in the Hazlehead area."

“We were very disappointed to be notified that, in the end, the officials recommended approval of the Grove Nursery site on Hazlehead Avenue.”

Mr Sell, of Craigiebuckler Drive, added: “We do need more recycling centres and facilities. However, Grove Nursery is not appropriate or practical and we hope for an alternative to be found which will not affect any area as profoundly as this would on the local community.”

Councillor for the area, Martin Greig, said: “Councillor Jennifer Stewart and I tried to prevent this site becoming the recommended location and from being approved. This green area means a lot to the city as well as to the more immediate neighbourhood.”

Mrs Stewart, also councillor for the area, said: “I am very concerned about this. I would have thought the centre would be best suited in a location further out of town.

This is not a situation of not in my back yard.

“Do we really want a recycling unit based there? Next to the jewel in the crown of the city – Hazlehead Park.”

 To get in touch with the community council, e-mail craigseacc@hotmail.co.uk or send a letter to 10 Craigiebuckler Drive, Aberdeen, AB15 8ND.