A north-east town centre will undergo an extensive “deep clean” following complaints about the state of the area
Rediscover Peterhead, which was formed to bring more people into the heart of the town, was condemned by a local trader last month for failing to keep it tidy.
Buchan Aquatics owner Gilbert Burnett had spoken out after taking it upon himself to spend a weekend pulling unsightly weeds from Broad Street and the Reform Monument, a problem he said was widespread in the town.
Yesterday the group acted by beginning a deep clean programme, in conjunction with Aberdeenshire Council, which they hope will leave the town centre sparkling by the end of the month.
The work will be undertaken by commercial cleaners Goldstar, who have been appointed to clean all pavements and street furniture.
The project will take two weeks to complete, and people have been encouraged to highlight any areas they believe are in particular need of attention.
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Manager of Rediscover Peterhead, Leslie Forsyth, said: “We really want to make a difference in the town centre.
“Goldstar will be working to ensure that every pavement gets a good clean.
“The town centre needs to look its best, and our contractors will be working hard to make that difference.”
Goldstar’s Scott Willox added: “We are delighted to have won this contract.
“Our van-mounted cleaning system is very flexible, and it will do a great job of making some of the hard-to-reach corners much cleaner.”
Mr Burnett welcomed the project, though he remains concerned over the long-term state of the town.
“While it’s good that they’re showing some sort of thought in looking after the town, it’s only two weeks out of the whole year,” he said.
“There are plenty of folk who would volunteer if a scheme was set up.
“That way there would also be no expenses.”
Anyone who has noticed any particular areas of the town centre that need a good clean should let Rediscover Peterhead know as soon as possible, on 07491 899459 or at mail@rediscoverpeterhead.co.uk.