Aberdeenshire Council could scrap plans to move its headquarters from Aberdeen to a new building in Inverurie.
On Thursday councillors will discuss a report which recommends that we should retain the existing offices at Woodhill House while increasing the office presence in Stonehaven, Ellon and Inverurie. Savings will be generated from the disposal of old properties.
The report also recommends exploring options to share the current Woodhill House complex with other public bodies.
In January 2017 councillors had voted to explore the option of building a new headquarters at Inverurie and quitting Woodhill House. But that was not something that I thought was in the best interests of the residents in North Kincardine.
A key factor at that time seemed to be the fact that Aberdeenshire is the only local authority in Scotland to have its headquarters outside its boundary. That is indeed the case, because of historical reasons (we own the former Grampian Region headquarters). However that is not a good basis for spending millions just to move elsewhere. I look forward to Thursday’s debate.
To read the report coming before councillors scroll down to item 9 on the agenda once you have clicked on this link: http://committees.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/committees.aspx?commid=1&meetid=18736
I agree with your goodself if an appointment is needed it is a marathon from Portlethen and surrounding southern ares, should we not have nearer contacts such as Aberdeenshire somewhere central????
Having the HQ At Woodhill house is the best option as Aberdeen city is at the heart of the shire and easiest to get to for everyone in the shire.
Moving to Inverurie is an utter nonsense and costly exercise. That town is becoming more congested by the day!