Green light for Ellon Wheel Park plan
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Plans for a new Ellon Wheel Park have been approved by a majority decision following a meeting of the Formartine area committee.
The plans have previously been recommended for approval however due to a high number of objections and suggestions from local councillors that the proposal should be brought to the table, the planning permission had been brought before the Formartine Area committee.
In total 120 objections were filed with Aberdeenshire Council when the plans were submitted, and the proposals continue to divide Ellon residents.
Addressing the meeting chair of the Wheel Park group Colin Allanach said: "Our vision is to build a safe space for all to enjoy including a pump track, cycle circuit for training riders and a skate park.
"Our aim is to build state of the art facility for all ages and which the community can be proud of and it will be free for use.
"Fees will apply only for specific training events that will generate income which will help with maintenance.
"Ellon has strong cycling links and income can be generated for upkeep over its 25 years expected lifespan.
"The central location makes it easy to connect with and is in line with integrated travel town plan and does not affect link paths."
He continued: "This will be a boost to Ellon town and while we note concerns of loss of activities a work around can be achieved.
"This will be great addition to the town and this is our op to get it done."
A spokesperson for residents of Park Terrace raised their perceived lack of consultation, despite the story appearing on many occasions within the Advertiser and Grampian Online, including front page articles.
Concerns were also raised on parking, toilet access and disturbance to residents which they claimed would be ongoing.
Councillor Isobel Davidson said: "This is an exciting development and I am sympathetic with concerns but anticipation of problems is greater than actual ones and the group will happily try to mitigate them should they occur.
"This is exciting for the town and much needed for young and all ages, it is a great opportunity to put something on this site as Ellon needs more infrastructure."
Councillor Louise McAllister added: "This really has been thoroughly thought through project.
"I feel it has been gone through in full detail and every possibility examined and I am fully in support of this.
"It is not without difficulties as a great many have been in touch with concerns - fears need to be allayed and doubts overcome that this can be a really positive move for Ellon and the whole area."
Opposing the plans councillor Gillan Owen said: " I fully support this and acknowledge the work done but I am not supportive of the location as the impact will be substantial.
"To protect open space and amenity this goes against policy.
"Having listened to residents I do love the venture but not in Gordon Park."
Her views were echoed by councillor John Crawley who said: "This is not going to be for everyone.
"I also support the idea but not here."
A motion was raised by councillor Owen to refuse seconded by councillor Crawley, with an amendment to accept the plans as submitted made by councillor McAllister seconded by councillor Davidson.
The vote was passed by eight votes for the amendment and four for the motion.
Commenting on the decision Colin Allanach said: "It’s been a long road to get this far and without all the help form the volunteers on the committee and the support for the majority of the locals we would never have got here.
"Now the really hard work starts getting all the funding finalised."
