Footdee residents express concerns over new waste collection plans

Footdee residents voice their worries about the impact of communal bins on their village's aesthetics and waste management.

Residents of Footdee, a quaint village in Aberdeen, are voicing their discontent following the announcement by Aberdeen City Council to replace individual wheelie bins with communal waste bins. This change, set to take effect on November 20, has sparked significant concern among locals who fear it will disrupt their community’s unique character and lead to environmental issues.

Community backlash against communal bins

The council’s decision to remove individual bins and replace them with communal options for general waste, recycling, and food waste has not been well received. Local resident Greg Stewart, who lives in Footdee with his family, expressed that the move has caused “great upset” among the community.

He worries that the new system could lead to an increase in local wildlife, such as foxes and gulls, which may be attracted to the communal bins. Stewart also highlighted concerns about the potential for increased rodent activity, stating that the changes could create an unsightly environment in a conservation area.

Concerns about parking and accessibility

Many residents are also worried about how the new bins will affect parking in the already congested village. Margaret Cameron, another resident, pointed out that the changes could make it difficult for those with mobility issues, like herself, to access the bins. She noted that the lack of snow clearing in winter could pose additional risks, as she has already experienced several falls while navigating the area. The sentiment among residents is clear: the new waste collection system could significantly impact their daily lives.

Lack of consultation raises eyebrows

One of the most contentious points raised by residents is the apparent lack of consultation from the council regarding these changes. Many locals, including Councillor Sandra Macdonald, were unaware of the plans until they were announced. Macdonald has called for the council to pause the implementation of the new system and engage with both residents and elected officials to find a more suitable solution. She emphasized the importance of community involvement in decisions that affect their living environment.

In response to the backlash, an Aberdeen City Council spokeswoman stated that the new bin service aims to provide a consistent waste management system across the city. She assured residents that their feedback would be considered before the changes take effect. However, the residents of Footdee remain skeptical, fearing that their concerns may not be adequately addressed.

As the implementation date approaches, the community’s apprehension continues to grow. The residents of Footdee are determined to make their voices heard, advocating for a waste management solution that respects their village’s unique character and addresses their concerns about environmental impacts and accessibility.