Aberdeenshire Council is to hold a public meeting to discuss plans for a stopover site for Gypsy/Travellers in the city.

The proposals suggest a seasonal stopover site at Aikey Brae, near Old Deer.

A public meeting on the project was held in May 2013 and discussions covered issues such as potential crime, clear-up of the sites, and management of the site. Following on from comments made, the local authority has now updated proposals.

The new plans would involve the creation of 14 caravan pitches, a boundary fence and secure entrance, while changes include reducing the length of stay from six weeks to a maximum of four. There would also be a charge for using the pitches to offset costs.

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In addition, a manager's office would be established to allow the site to be monitored full-time during the week and at weekends as required, while a CCTV system would increase security measures.

The Council has said establishing the site would cost around £316,000 as opposed to £1.06m for the creation of a transit of permanent site.

Commenting on the proposals, Aberdeenshire Council's Head of Housing, Douglas Edwardson, said: "The purpose of the meeting is to show we have listened and responded to concerns raised through the public consultation processes.

"The presentation of the updated proposals will give the public the opportunity to comment in detail on these and for feedback to be given to the Policy and Resources Committee."

The meeting will be held at Mintlaw Academy on Wednesday 5 February at 7pm.

(JP/IT)