31 May 2017

Aberdeenshire beaches recognised with Scotland’s Beach Awards

Eight Aberdeenshire beaches have been recognised by Keep Scotland Beautiful for the high standards provided to users - from keeping sand litter-free, to providing excellent information and accessible amenities.

The following coastline hotspots have been re-awarded their Scotland’s Beach Awards – all of which have held the honour for more than seven years.

Balmedie – held since 2006
Collieston – held since 2008
Cruden Bay – held since 2010
Fraserburgh – held since 2008
Fraserburgh Waters of Philorth – held since 2008
Inverboyndie – held since 2007
Peterhead Lido – held since 2008
Stonehaven – held since 2007

The Scottish Beach Awards celebrate some of the best managed beaches in the country and have acted as the national benchmark for local environmental quality around Scotland’s coastline for a quarter of a century.

Awards are presented after a rigorous assessment process which ensures each beach meets the five pillars of the award: information provision, facility management, cleanliness, safety and community engagement.

Flags from the 2017 awards will, from next week, be flying at 60 beaches the length and breadth of Scotland, including at Aberdeenshire’s eight award winning locations.

Stephen Archer, Director of Infrastructure Services said: “We’re delighted that eight of our magnificent beaches have received renewed recognition from Keep Scotland Beautiful.

“It’s huge testament to our teams who work hard to keep them clean and safe-to-use for visitors, but also to our residents who continue to take great pride in keeping Aberdeenshire a beautiful place to live, work and visit.”

Derek Robertson, Chief Executive of Keep Scotland Beautiful, said: “The Scottish Beach Awards set the standard for our stunning coastlines and inland shores - making sure that they are litter free, provide excellent facilities for families and encourage more visitors to our beautiful beaches.

“Going to the beach is a tradition that we want to continue, whilst protecting this valuable environment. It is vital that we maintain our support for organisations’ efforts to ensure that Aberdeenshire coastlines offer a great day out whilst recognising the wider benefits of a good quality environment for people’s health and wellbeing and local economies.”

A map showing all the award-winning beaches with directions, facilities and images can be found at www.keepscotlandbeautiful.org/beach