SIR, – I have just learned of the proposal by Aberdeen City Council and its officials to site a recycling centre at Hazlehead Avenue. I am appalled and disappointed that, once again, the council and its officials have displayed total disregard for the environment and amenities in that community.

The proposal to site a huge recycling centre in this part of Aberdeen when the centre’s catchment area includes parts of Aberdeenshire displays a lack of vision and imagination.

The proposed site, so close to primary and secondary schools, a children’s nursery and on the approach road to Hazlehead Park with its children’s zoo and two magnificent golf courses, means there will be a huge detrimental impact on the community.

Safety for children is paramount and the amenities available at Hazlehead Park, much used by tourists and local people, must be protected.

Recycling centres of the size proposed should be sited on industrial estates or in the country on the edge of the city boundary. Anyone who has visited the recycling centre at Tullos industrial estate can see the reasons behind having the centres on such estates.

Aberdeen City Council is displaying total contempt for the people they are paid to represent. Listening and acting upon the views of the people is essential. Is the community to be ignored as they were over the issue of Union Terrace Gardens?