ELLON EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

In the initial phase of the project from 1998 - 2001, emphasis was on creating an economic development strategy and Action Plan and undertaking an initial series of generally small-scale projects designed to instil public confidence and to highlight the opportunities for change available to the local community.

Following on from this a community based framework was developed to provide a sustainable basis for the long-term development of the town and its community. This included a coherent youth and community strategy for the town focussing future activity through ATP and other agency and funding sources. Funding was directed towards a variety of projects which contribute towards that aim and which will support two key elements.

1. The production of plans for the enhancement of the town centre and promotion of the opportunities for new investment to support the expanding population.
2. The support and development of an increasingly self sustaining community structure which reduces reliance on the public sector as an agent of change.

Another key element was directly involving local community and businesses at economic, community, town centre and environmental. These groups worked closely with officers in developing and taking project ideas forward.

These included a focus on developing the notion of a self-sustaining community, one where there is a good balance between life and work. A key element was to increase the range and number of jobs available in the town to reduce out-commuting and to encourage new business growth and development. To carry this forward there was a focus on the promotion of Ellon and on facilitating development opportunities within the town including the promotion of available local business land and premises.

An important feature of the self-sustaining vision for the community, is to reduce the next outflow of expenditure from the town through securing additional investment in the town centre. This links to the objective of enhancing the environment for residents and visitors alike and enhancing the town's reputation as a "green community".
 

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