Want a Seat at the Table? New Opportunities for the Community Centre

Added at 17:02 on 06 January 2026

Want a Seat at the Table? New Opportunities for the Community Centre

Recently, representatives from Stonehaven and District Community Council, together with the Development Officer of the Kincardine Development Partnership, met with Allan Rae of Aberdeenshire Council. The meeting was requested by the Community Council to address difficulties experienced by community organisations with the new letting system and to explore ways to increase local participation in the management and operation of the Community Centre.

Allan Rae is the Head of Service for Communities, Wellbeing and Partnerships within Aberdeenshire Council. Part of his role involves overseeing a range of community initiatives and encouraging effective collaboration across sectors to enhance local services. He is particularly focused on promoting community engagement and encouraging residents to take an active role in local decision-making.

At the meeting, improvements to the booking system were discussed, but Allan Rae was particularly interested in the idea of a more collaborative approach to managing the Community Centre. A model similar to the “Friends of the Pool” was discussed, and Allan welcomed this idea.

At present, the Centre operates without an overarching management group, and the current system lacks the initiative needed to bring fresh ideas and energy. It is also underutilised at weekends. A more collaborative approach—where community members work alongside the Council—could revitalise the Centre, introducing new activities, improving organisation, and fostering a stronger sense of community ownership. “The Living Room”, operated by the Community Collective, already demonstrates what can be achieved, and it now appears that there is a real opportunity to help shape the future of the building and develop it into a vibrant hub for the community.

If you are interested in being involved in this initiative, please email our secretary at secretary@stonehavencc.org.uk