Curbs on parking criticised

● Physical distancing plan ‘unnecessary’ says suburb’s community council

Residents in an Aberdeen community have branded planned physical distancing measures in a busy shopping stretch “unnecessary”, given Scotland’s progress against coronavirus.

The work on North Deeside Road in Cults is designed to create safe space for pedestrians, cyclists and people queuing for entry to shops and businesses.

But it would mean the loss of all on-street parking near the post office, chemist, and supermarkets for all but blue badge holders.

Cults, Bieldside and Milltimber Community Council said pavements on North Deeside Road were “adequate” for distancing – something residents have managed since the onset of the pandemic.

Members worry many elderly residents, without a disability warranting blue badge parking, rely on on-street parking.

Chairman Guus Glass said: “We accept Aberdeen City Council has responsibilities for public health and the proposed measures are designed to support a reduction of risk in catching the virus.

“The impact on other health issues for the elderly and disabled, the local economy and inconvenience to the general public caused by the measures will, however, far outweigh the slight reduction in risk achieved.

“As such, the plans should be reconsidered and hopefully stopped.”

Around 1,300 people have petitioned the council to scrap the proposals – and there has been significant protest elsewhere in the city too.

But NHS Grampian bosses have backed the far-reaching £1.76 million physical distancing project in Aberdeen.

A city council spokeswoman said: “We are preparing proposals for Cults to allow for physical distancing and are discussing with the local community council and businesses.

“There is parking for customers and staff at the rear of the shops which would involve a short walk for able-bodied people, and there is also some parking along the main road.

“We are looking to balance the needs of all while allowing opportunities for physical distancing at the busiest parts of our retail centres.”

Photograph by Paul Glendell RULES: Customers queue outside Lloyds Pharmacy on North Deeside Road in Cults.