Public urged to have their say on controversial plans for former nursery site

Opponents call meeting into recycling centre proposals

By Catriona Webster

Published: 24/08/2010

Controversial plans for a new recycling centre on the site of a former nursery in the Hazlehead district of Aberdeen will be the subject of a public meeting next month.

Opponents of the plans, including the area’s community council, residents and politicians, are calling on people to make their views known at the event on September 9.

Earlier this year, councillors backed plans to build the city’s fifth recycling centre in the north-west corner of the Grove Nursery at Hazlehead.

The area 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 Hazlehead Park.

The local community has voiced concerns about the impact of the centre on the park and nearby roads, and the site’s proximity to primary and secondary schools at Hazlehead.

William Sell, chairman of Craigiebuckler and Seafield Community Council, said: “There has been a lot of concern in the community. I have had a massive number of e-mails and letters from residents. The main concern is the fact that it is being built in a residential area next to a premier public park that is known as the jewel in Aberdeen’s crown. The other concern is the impact on road safety. There could be an increase in road traffic accidents because of the amount of traffic on Hazlehead Avenue. Primary school pupils cross that road to get to school. In my opinion the views of community groups haven’t been taken into account. That’s why we have called this public meeting.”

Martin Greig, who is councillor for the area and due to attend the meeting, said: “It’s important that local people get a chance to have their say and the community council’s efforts have generated a great deal of concern about this proposal.

“Residents have many worries, particularly relating to road safety and environmental hazards.”

Director of housing and environment Pete Leonard and council officers will attend the meeting to respond to the concerns.

The public meeting will be held in Hazlehead Academy assembly hall on Thursday, September 9, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.