About

The primary role of the Cluny, Midmar and Monymusk Community Council is to act without prejudice and represent the views of the local community to the local authority on issues within our area. The Community Council is divided into three areas - the extent of the Monymusk area is shown below.

However, a Community Council in Scotland is limited in what it can do. For example, the community council does not have the power to enforce changes. That means not directly implementing any decisions, not directly funding projects or managing local services. They are also not allowed to hire staff to carry out tasks on their behalf.

Members of our local community are now aware that there are several issues in our area, which could pose risks to our local community but also potential opportunities. We are now looking at how we can help to mitigate risks as well as how we can maximise the benefits to our local community .

The public sector in Scotland is facing increasing pressure to reduce services due to financial challenges. These reduced services are likely to affect local communities. A small example is that Aberdeenshire Council will no longer be providing bedding plants for 2025 due to cost. They are also removing some of the grit bins in our area.

The loss of public assets can also negatively impact a local community by reducing the availability of services and spaces that people need and value. This can lead to a decline in community pride, economic opportunity, and social connections.

An immediate risk is the proposed sale on the open market by Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) of the Donview Centre and associated car park.  To mitigate this risk, the Community Council has therefore submitted a note of interest with a view to acquiring it through the Community Asset Transfer Scheme. As a next step, our local community is now working to set up a separate charity - see Monymusk & District Community Trust.

We urgently need your help, so please visit the Donview Centre page for further information and by completing the consultation form (link at the bottom of the Donview Centre page).