Land asset transfer to Inverurie Scouts approved by area committee
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An asset transfer request from Inverurie Scouts to take over land next to its base in the community has been granted by councillors.
The group lodged the request with Aberdeenshire Council in August for the land which is situated at Victoria Street.
The Garioch area committee assessed the asset transfer at its online meeting on Tuesday.
Councillor Lesley Berry declared an interest and left the meeting during this item as she is a leader of the Scouts.
In the report that went before councillors from interim Garioch area manager Ann Overton it said: "Prior to the construction of the new Inverurie Community Campus the Scout Group had informal access to the Inverurie Academy playing fields and Victoria Park.
"These areas are now unavailable as they provide parking for the new academy.
"This had greatly reduced the outside space available to the group which is fundamental to the Scouting programme.
"The transfer of the land requested would allow the Scout Group to provide a range of activities with an outdoor and adventure theme.
"Officers consider this to be a well organised community group with the capacity to manage and maintain the facility.
"The transfer would enhance the ability of the group to provide a programme of activities which adhere to the recommendations of the Scout Association."
The interim area manager told the meeting: "The Scout Group is a valid community transfer body.
"They have made a valid application, it does comply with all legal requirements and we are able to transfer the land without burden."
Area committee chairman Fergus Hood said: "It will be a huge asset to the community."
Councillor Judy Whyte agreed and said: "I wholly approve this proposal. It would be an improvement and it is great to see community involvement looking to take ownership and develop other skills with the young people.
Councillor Marion Ewenson also said the asset transfer should be approved.
She added: "This is a bit of land that is not going to be used for anything else and it means it will be maintained.
"It is an important bit of land as it is right beside the new campus, so I think this is a great solution and it will also be a great thing for the scouts to have."
Councillors agreed to approve the recommendations of the report and grant the asset transfer.
