A wide variety of issues discussed tonight at the monthly (virtual) meeting of North Kincardine Rural Community Council. Here are key points that caught my attention.

– A restored 1940s Willys Jeep has been stolen from a local farm building. It is feared it was taken to order.

– A volunteer has come forward to help with the community council’s social media.

– Community councillors are supportive of a 40mph limit on the South Deeside Road at its junction with the Maryculter Bridge. Speed checks along the road showed some vehicles were driving in excess of 70mph. The average speed at the Mill Inn access was 42mph eastwards and 39mph westwards.

– The Duffs Hill road has been repaired to a much better standard than was expected by residents.

– Community councillors discussed the future of Park Bridge. It has been closed to vehicles for some time due to safety concerns. A report proposing continuing the ban on vehicles goes before Kincardine and Mearns Area Committee tomorrow, with a full report on long-term plans coming to the committee later in the year. The community council will comment at that time.

– As ever planning applications were discussed, including a shelter for Mucky Boots and an extension to Maryculter Cemetery. Community councillors discussed whether 35 parking places (including eight for people with disabilities) would be sufficient, but agreed not to make a representation to the local authority.

– It was agreed to plan for the annual plant sale at the Corbie Hall on 15 May next year, pandemic permitting.

– There was a discussion on the impact of the pandemic on the area and the services provided by Aberdeenshire Council. Things will not be the same. We also heard that a number of organisations may not be returning when lockdown is further eased.

– Other matters were discussed too including broadband provision, wreaths for Remembrance Sunday’s local services, and the Nestrans transport strategy for the North East up to 2040.

– The next meeting will be on Monday 19 October, which will be the annual general meeting. Existing community councillors will remain in post.