Concern over traveller site plans

A number of unofficial camps have sprung up in and around Aberdeen

Communities in Aberdeen have pledged to oppose proposals that could see four new sites for gypsy travellers built in the city.

The council believes the sites are needed to help reduce unauthorised traveller encampment.

However, residents who live in the areas earmarked by the authority have said they will strongly resist the council's plans.

The final decision over the proposal may be referred to Scottish ministers.

The Halting Sites, as they have been named by Aberdeen City Council, are locations where up to 10 caravans can legally park for a limited time.

The authority hopes that, by installing water supplies and toilets and carrying out refuse collections, it will reduce the number of unofficial encampments that have sprung up in the city.

Potential locations

A total of 28 unofficial sites were reported last year alone.

It has been proposed that four official sites be built and nine council-owned areas have already been shortlisted as potential locations.

The move is already meeting with opposition from local people.

Torry Community Council said it will fight plans to build at site at Torry Battery, which it hailed as one of the city's major attractions.

A public meeting is expected to be held on Monday evening at Kingswells, where people will consider how to oppose plans for a site at the local park and ride.

Opposition is also growing against plans for one near the Lidl supermarket at Bucksburn.

Other areas proposed include Altens and Hazlehead.

The council will consider the proposal on Wednesday but it is likely the applications will be referred to Scottish ministers for a final decision.