Residents of the north-east’s biggest town are being encouraged to have their say on the future of the community’s ailing shopping district.
The Choose Peterhead initiative – spearheaded by local performing arts group Modo – is inviting residents and shoppers to offer ideas to improve the precinct around Drummers Corner.
In recent months, tensions have risen in the shopping area and became so inflamed one clothing store brought in a security guard after workers felt intimidated by gangs of youths.
Now, Aberdeenshire Council is offering a total of £100,000 to groups who can produce initiatives to exorcise Drummers Corner of its “inhospitable and dreich environment”.
A photography competition to capture and promote the best of the Blue Toon was announced earlier this week and organisers have launched workshops to help shape the future of the area.
Modo creative director Martin Danziger said: “Choose Peterhead will re-establish the town centre as a destination for social and leisure activities and the recognised hub of community activity in the town.
“Helped by an expert team of designers, architects, urban planners and artists, the community will create an action plan to make positive changes within the town centre.
“This will make public spaces more appealing and user-friendly, and create a vibrant and economically thriving environment which people can use and enjoy.”
The workshops will run from Thursday, May 12 to Sunday, May 15 in the former Happit shop in Drummers Corner.
Sessions will cover how to improve public safety and the perception of safety in the area, new play facilities for children, and how to make the most of the natural environment.