How’s

Huntly?
Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey
Content

Executive Summary 3

What is How’s Huntly? 4

About the responses 5

How people found out about How’s Huntly? 5
Connection to Huntly 6
Respondents’ age groups 7
Geographic range 8

Place Standard 10
Comparison with 2018 results 11
Can I easily walk and cycle around Huntly? 14
Does Huntly’s public transport meet my needs? 15
In Huntly, do traffic and parking arrangements allow people to move around safely? 16
Do the streets and public spaces of Huntly create an attractive place that is easy to
navigate? 17
Can I experience good-quality natural spaces in Huntly? 18
Can I access a range of places for play and recreation in Huntly? 19
Does Huntly have the things I need to live and enjoy life? For example, this could include
shops, schools, libraries, health services, or places to eat and drink. 20
Does Huntly have an active local economy with good-quality work opportunities? 21
Do the homes in Huntly meet the needs of the community? 22
Is there a range of spaces and opportunities to meet people in Huntly? 23
Does Huntly have a positive identity and do I feel I belong to it? 24
Do I feel safe in Huntly? 25
Are Huntly’s buildings and public spaces well cared for? 26
Do I feel able to take part in decisions and make changes for the better? 27

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 2

Executive Summary
How’s Huntly? asked people to give a rating on 14 different areas of life and activity in the
town. 221 responded and the average ratings on a scale between 1 (lots to improve) and 7
(it’s great) are shown throughout the following pages. The same survey was conducted in
2018 and has been followed up in November 2021, post-covid, and to aid us in reviewing the
strategy.

The results show that the strongest attribute to life in Huntly is the surrounding natural
environment and the ease of access to natural open spaces. Outdoor leisure also ranks
highly in the town. Navigating around Huntly is straightforward, due to it’s grid-iron layout,
and people find accessibility to walks to be a positive aspect. Huntly is deemed a very safe
place to live, with a strong sense of identity. There is a large variety of leisure clubs and
societies in Huntly which were celebrated by many - primarily the quality of the sports clubs.
Outdoor spaces were praised however there were calls for improved indoor space, which
have become less accessible since the pandemic.

There are a variety of responses to consultation work, with many feeling heard and knowing
how they can get involved with making Huntly a better place to live. Just as many had a
neutral response or negative response, citing that they were unsure who to approach, or that
they felt-over consulted, with too many surveys and not enough action.

Public transport, traffic and parking receives an average rating of 4.2 out of 7, suggesting
these are above average. 11% of respondents don’t use public transport, and those who do,
find connections along the A96 to be sufficient, yet slow. Ratings for regional connections
are quite positive, but to rural locations, less so. There are many concerns about too many
cars parked on the narrow streets, and pavements in need of repair. Accessibility for prams
and wheelchair users was noted for both transport issues and for using the pavements.

The architecture of Huntly is highly regarded, and the attractiveness of the town is
considered above average. The floral additions and local effort to display Christmas lights
are appreciated. Respondents felt that although improvements are happening, there are
many empty buildings, which was a major response to this theme. Care and maintenance of
buildings and spaces was regarded as below average, with public and private buildings in
disrepair, alongside challenging maintenance issues due to conservation rules.

The condition of the local economy and opportunities for work it brings was a key weakness
highlighted. The job market is said to be very limited, offering mostly low-paid employment,
with little to no scope for progression. They felt that investment was needed to attract
businesses back to Huntly, and made comparisons with Kintore and Inverurie as places they
see as enterprising.

The declining retail and dining options at the heart of the town was considered a major
concern, spanning a few themes. The variety of places to casually meet, eat and drink needs
to be improved, with many eager for good coffee shops and or affordable restaurants.

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 3

What is How’s Huntly?
It is a review of the Room to Thrive strategy after Covid and builds on the previous place
standard survey. Actioning this, a campaign was created to invite people to take part again in
the exercise, which asks How’s Huntly?

The main part of this research was based on the Place Standard tool developed by
Architecture+Design Scotland, NHS Health Scotland and Scottish Government. The Place
Standard Tool has been formulated to provide a rounded view of life in a place that can be
easily benchmarked between different groups within a community, over different time periods
for the same place, and in comparison to other places. Identifying assets and places to
improve, it has been used successfully in starting conversations about places across
Scotland. In addition to the Place Standard questions, a number of demographic questions
were included.

A campaign has been organised encouraging individuals to complete the survey on their
own. Digital completion was encouraged via the project website, www.huntly.town. As there
will be some situations where digital completion is not possible or appropriate, a paper
worksheet was also produced.

Posters, flyers and physical worksheets were distributed around the town, as well as being
available at the Orb’s bookshop (The Square, Huntly). This was also supported by local
press coverage and advertising on social media. Paper worksheets were also distributed
through the Gordon Schools and promoted online for parents and guardians.

This report provides the details and analyses of the responses received, and is expanded to
include a comparison section with the 2018 survey.

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 4

About the responses
221 reponses

All 78 respondents from schools completed a paper survey.

How people found out about How’s Huntly?

Those completing the exercise online were asked an optional question of how they found out
about How’s Huntly?

Based on 221 responses, some respondents left multiple responses.

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 5

Connection to Huntly
Respondents were asked to select their connection to Huntly from the below range of
options:

● Do you…
○ live in Huntly? ○ work in Huntly?
○ live near Huntly? ○ visit Huntly?

The diagram below shows the spread of responses, including crossover between those who
lived and work in Huntly.

Based on 221 responses, some respondents had multiple connection.

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 6

Respondents’ age groups
Respondents were asked to select which age group they belonged to from the below range
of options:

○ 14 and under ○ In my 50s

○ 15-19 ○ In my 60s
○ In my 20s ○ In my 70s
○ In my 30s ○ In my 80s
○ In my 40s ○ 90 and over

Based on 220 responses.

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 7

Geographic range
Those completing the exercise had the option of leaving their home postcode.

Based on 218 responses, the below maps show the spread of responses across Scotland,
with a notable concentration in the AB54 area.

Map data ⓒ2022 Imagery ⓒ2022 CNES / Airbus, Getmapping plc, Mixar Technologies

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 8

Within Huntly 101 distinct postcodes were represented from 218 respondents who left their
postcode. The below map shows the spread of postcodes represented across the town.

Map data ⓒ2022 Imagery ⓒ2022 CNES / Airbus, Getmapping plc, Mixar Technologies

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 9

Place Standard
As noted earlier, the main body of the How's Huntly exercise is based on the Place Standard
tool, which asks people to rate different areas of life and activity in a place on a seven point
scale between 'Lots to Improve!' (1) and 'It's Great!' (7).

The below diagram shows a summary of the results across each of the fourteen areas on a
scale between 1 and 7. The closer to the centre of the diagram, the lower a score has been
received meaning the more negatively it is perceived. Further detail on each topic is shown
on the following pages.

Based on 221 responses.

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 10

Comparison with 2018 results

Based on 738 responses in 2018.

Based on 221 responses in 2021.

Comparing this year’s survey results to the results taken in 2018, the majority of themes
have overall the same or very similar ratings, with similar reasoning behind the responses.
There are a few differences with positive and some negative changes seen to be taking
place in the town between the years, most of which are due to the effects of COVID-19. This
is represented visually on the graphic above.

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 11

The ease of walking and cycling around Huntly is still considered to be above average,
although the rating has slightly dropped from 5.38 to 5.23. Walking is still considered to be a
positive, with the town being so compact that everything is accessible by foot, and people
enjoying walks in nature. The concerns primarily focus on better and safer cycle routes and
places to lock bikes. Part-pedestrianisation of the square and Duke Street has been
requested, as the issues for walking are due to parked cars.

The ratings for the themes for Public transport, Traffic and Parking have remained the same,
again with the same points mentioned in 2018. Rural connections need improvement, but
regional routes are rated quite positively. Parking issues within the town are noted
throughout the survey, with calls for a one-way system.

Ratings for attractiveness of public spaces and ease of navigating streets have improved
slightly. It’s been noted that the town is looking less empty. The theme which looks at local
amenities and facilities has also improved with the bakery opening and people seeing
changes happen, albeit slowly. There is still very much a focus on filling empty buildings with
independent businesses. The Health Centre which was looked upon as positive in 2018 is
now seen negatively due to lack of availability of appointments, which will most likely be due
to COVID-19; as has been seen all over Scotland.

Natural spaces have continued to be seen positively, though the average rating is slightly
down on 2018. Views on Play and Recreation have dropped, outdoor spaces are still
celebrated, but the effects of Covid has worsened perception on availability of leisure and
social activities in indoor spaces, which was already an issue before the pandemic. The
average rating for spaces and opportunities to meet people has dropped slightly. This was
already below average due to the lack of cafes, restaurants and indoor recreational spaces;
again a reason for this may be due to covid-19.

Ratings for work opportunities have improved, but is still very much a below average rating
in Huntly. In 2018 it was the lowest rated theme, and is now the second lowest, above
buildings and public spaces. People would still like to see new enterprises in and around the
town, specifically to encourage young people to stay in the area. One of the positive
viewpoints from the pandemic is the change in working practises, with remote working being
seen as a benefit to work-life balance, lessening the need to commute to the city.

For Homes in Huntly, the rating is the same with the same issues mentioned in 2018; the
need for more affordable housing, both for families and individuals in the area. The only
noted change in reasonings is the fuel crisis and the poor energy efficiency of many older
homes in Huntly. This has been heightened by the conservation area restrictions which were
already seen as an issue in 2018.

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 12

The rating for care for buildings and public spaces has dropped from 3.70 to 3.49, now
sitting as the lowest rated theme. The empty buildings are the major cause for concern, and
the refurbishments that people thought would have been completed, have yet to happen.
The disrepair of the hotel is seen as a danger, along with other key town square buildings.

The sense of Identity and Belonging has remained the same, with the same positive and
negative reasonings as in 2018. An overall positive and friendly community exists in the town
but still an ongoing divide between ‘locals’ and ‘newcomers’. With regards to Safety in
Huntly, this has dropped slightly, but with the same issues of drugs, burglaries, and
anti-social driving.

The view on taking part in Decision-Making and creating change for the better has improved,
it is seen more positively, this may be due to the consultation over the last few years, and
people are more aware of how they can get involved, and some feel confident in future
changes in the pipeline. There are still similar negative reasons to before, such as
over-consultation and some people seeing less action than they would like to.

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 13

Can I easily walk and cycle around Huntly?

670 answered in 2021.

179 answered in 2021.

One of the most positive attributes of Huntly is the ease to walk and cycle around the town.
Over 70% of respondents are scoring it above average, similarly to the responses given in
2018.

Many respondents comment on the beauty of the town, as well as it being small and mostly
flat, making walking both enjoyable and easy. Pathways for walkers are seen positively and
well-trodden, although lacking signposting.

Cycling is seen less positively, primarily due to lack of parking and cycle locks, and lack of
safe cycle routes. Potholes in roads and difficult junctions have also been noted as reasons
that make cyclists nervous to ride bikes.

Pavements are narrow and uneven in many places across the town, and access is often
blocked by cars parking on pavements. This makes the town centre difficult to walk safely at
busy times, especially for wheelchair users or people with prams.

Suggested improvements are

-the pedestrianisation of Duke Street and part of the square, with limits on parking to
commercial and disabled spaces.
- safer spaces for cycling, including bike parks, slowing speed in some areas, adding safer
connections across the A96 and for better links to quieter roads.

“Lots of nice walks and paths.”

“I can walk around Huntly very easily and safely but am nervous to cycle as there are a lot of
potholes in the roads and lots of cars parked in the road too.”

“I enjoy walking and cycling around Huntly, from a few tricky junctions and the narrow
pavements.”

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 14

Does Huntly’s public transport meet my needs?

695 answered in 2018.

177 answered in 2021.

Public transport as a whole is considered to be average, with a variety of responses

reflecting individual requirements and commuting needs. The cost of public transport and
restrictiveness of timings mean that private transport is seen as the most common use to get
around in rural areas, with 11% of respondents saying they don’t use public transport at all.

The bus routes on the A96 to Inverness and Aberdeen are sufficient, and are considered to
meet commuting needs into Aberdeen. The number 10 service into the city is quite slow,
meaning journey times can be long. Connections to serve Aberdeen Royal Infirmary are
good. By train, it is thought to be expensive and not well served at weekends. It is difficult to
come back to Huntly from Aberdeen on a night out.

To travel to rural locations and villages outside the A96, the bus service was considered to
be poor, with erratic timings and unreliable links to Alford, Banff, Turriff, Rhynie, Lumsden,
Aberchirder and Drumblade. Access to buses with mobility scooters, wheelchairs and
walking support was considered difficult.

Car pools were suggested, and a network of electric minibuses to outlying places could
reduce car dependency.

“Poor/non-existent public transport link from my village to Huntly. I have to use my own
transport to shop in Huntly.”

“The train is ok but Sunday service is terrible. The bus is ok if you’re going on the A96, all
other routes are a no go.”

“Not enough buses to surrounding villages, not enough trains on weekends and on Sunday
they are not reliable.”

“The main routes are covered but if you want to travel to smaller villages or rural locations
you need a car. I can't see that public transport will ever be able to cover largely rural areas.”

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 15

In Huntly, do traffic and parking arrangements allow people
to move around safely?

675 answered in 2018.

201 answered in 2021.

Traffic and Parking in Huntly is considered average, with positive comments by twenty-five
people that in the centre of Huntly there is adequate free parking in close proximity to the
square. Eight people were not satisfied with the amount of parking available, and two
commented that it wasn’t close enough to the centre.

There were particular calls for improvements to be made with the most common issue being
cars parking irresponsibly on pavements, junctions and double yellow lines on Duke Street
and the Square, which many felt could result in an accident. Congestion around the school
was the second most commented issue, particularly buses.

Part pedestrianisation of the Square has been suggested, with the recognition that parking
will still be needed, specifically for those with mobility issues, due to lack of public transport.
A suggested time-restriction for traffic and parking, and slower speeds in the town centre,
could make the space safer for all. A one-way system for cars is considered a priority to
ease flow of traffic in the centre.

“We could do with more efficient signals at the blind corners.”

“At school pick up times it can be difficult to cross roads safely.”

“Plenty of carparks but I'd feel safer if there was more pedestrianisation / space given to
businesses / cafes etc rather than parked / moving cars in the centre of town.”

“Speed restrictions need to be tighter, and enforced. And no more parking on pavements,
which hampers wheelchair users.”

“Gordon Street is very congested with people parking on the yellow lines at the corner.”

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 16

Do the streets and public spaces of Huntly create an
attractive place that is easy to navigate?

704 answered in 2018.

218 answered in 2021.

Huntly is considered above average, with repeated strong positives, such as it's architectural
beauty and friendly atmosphere. Access to natural areas on the outskirts is considered great
for exercise, walks and mental health and the town centre is very easy to navigate due to its
grid iron pattern, and compact size meaning that everything is within walking distance. The
floral displays are regarded highly, bringing colour, with many respondents calling for more
displays throughout the town, with addition of trees.

It is noted that improvements are in process, however, the amount of empty buildings in the
town is still seen as the main issue in the town with a lack of shops resulting in Huntly feeling
depressing, empty and that it has lost its way. The maintenance of the buildings has been
mentioned as a severe issue, with a lack of upkeep in both public and privately owned
properties.

“Some empty shops, but some great stuff too - new developments in the square are
fantastic.”

“It’s a lovely town but if the square was more pedestrianised that would really make the most
of it especially with the plans underway.”

“Public realm areas including pedestrian areas could be vastly improved. Signage strategy
needed and could attract tourism to support the local economy. Some key signs are not
there or obscured by vegetation.”

“More shops open but still needs to be a more cohesive look to the town centre.”

“The square is slowly being renovated but there are still plenty of empty buildings, some of
which are falling into disrepair. Not much to navigate to but signage could be better.“

“It is easy to get around the town. Could be a bit more green in the square but we are
surrounded by countryside.”

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 17

Can I experience good-quality natural spaces in Huntly?

686 answered in 2018.

220 answered in 2021.

Natural Space in Huntly is considered to be of a very good quality, and ranked second only
to Walking and Cycling in the survey, together demonstrating that the access to natural
environment is a strong asset to the town. Respondents were very positive overall, and
twenty-five percent of people- the highest amount for any theme, gave it full top marks.

The majority of people commented on the natural beauty on the outskirts of town, with walks
along woodland spaces, rivers, parks and hills. There is also plenty of greenery and outdoor
facilities.

Quite a few respondents noted that the town centre itself lacked natural or green space, and
people would welcome improvements by way of benches, planters and trees.

The recent storm Arwen that devastated many trees, was pointed out, noting that future
storms could result in potential danger in well walked areas.

“We have access to lovely walks within the town and nearby within walking distance as well
as recreational areas.”

“Yes, but just imagine how great it would be to have a green centre in our square!”

“Plenty of outdoor spaces and facilities to enjoy in and around huntly.”

“There are lovely natural spaces on the edge of town - but in the town centre there is not a
single public green space.”

“Great green spaces and river walk - join more of them up and sign them to improve and link
to outlying villages.”

“Lots of good natural spaces particularly along the river section which could be enhanced
with better all-access paths.”

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 18

Can I access a range of places for play and recreation in
Huntly?

695 answered in 2018.

216 answered in 2021.

Scores for Play and Recreation dropped slightly since 2018, and is now scored as average.
The positive provisions among respondents is the abundance of outdoor spaces and
excellent facilities for active outdoor recreation and play. It was however recognised by
equally as many respondents that kids’ outdoor play facilities are outdated or in need of
maintenance. The sports facilities were considered a strong feature of the town, specifically
the Ski Centre and swimming. Sports facilities also need updating.

There is not enough to do for teenagers, adults and older people. A lack of options for indoor
play, hobbies and socialising was frequently mentioned, and most prominently, limited places
for eating and drinking.

“Lovely outdoor spaces, not so much indoor.”

“The town lacks quality sporting areas and exercise areas. A space for exercise classes that
has air conditioning would be great.”

“There are a few parks that I use with my youngest child but there is nothing in huntly that
my teenage children feel is for them. They would like some kind of youth club or cafe that
they could go to in the evening.”

“There’s parks and fitness facilities but again signage could be better. If you know where
they are it’s ok. Not much more to do. Eating out is limited as are things to do in the evening.
Need to go elsewhere for cinema etc.”

“Very impressed with the amenities in Huntly - at least four play parks and a swimming pool,
as well as nice walks.”

“As a town that is exceptionally placed for tourists (and townsfolk alike) there is very
little/nothing for youngsters and families to enjoy.”

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 19

Does Huntly have the things I need to live and enjoy life?
For example, this could include shops, schools, libraries, health
services, or places to eat and drink.

679 answered in 2018.

217 answered in 2021.

There have been signs of improvement since 2018 and this is reflected in most recent the
Place Standards survey, but the lack of facilities and amenities in the town is continued to
be seen as one of the biggest concerns for Huntly.

Sixty-one people have specifically mentioned the lack of choice of places to eat or drink,
specifically coffee shops and restaurants. Another forty-nine people noted the lack of range
of shops, and independent businesses, due to the dominance of Asda and Tesco. There are
continued calls to incentivise retailers and small businesses to set up in the town centre, and
more so encouraged by the changes seen so far with the bakery and square deal project.

The Health Centre is no longer considered a good facility due to the lack of available
appointments, most likely a reflection of the pandemic, but it is also considered to be very
much needed and improved upon.

The library continues to be highlighted as an asset for the town, however it closes at
inconvenient times, similarly to other facilities in the town. There is also no longer a bank or
ATM machine available. The school buildings and facilities are too small and not fit for
purpose. There is a lack of social spaces, particularly in the evenings; and the town centre
has lost its heart.

“Lack of a cash machine in the town centre has prevented us from spending money in the
independent local shops. If we have to drive out to the supermarket then just buy what we
need there.”

“Health services are not easy to access due to COVID restrictions. Town desperately needs
a couple of good reasonably priced restaurants open in the evening.”

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 20

Does Huntly have an active local economy with
good-quality work opportunities?

694 answered in 2018.

213 answered in 2021.

Perception of Economy and Work has improved slightly, but is now the second weakest of all
the themes for Huntly. Only seven respondents gave positive responses for this theme;
seventeen weren’t sure or were retired, and seventy gave negative reasons for their scoring.

The most common reason continues to be the perception of a limited job market across
Huntly and District with many people suggesting the need for people to have to commute to
Aberdeen and other towns and cities for work. Industries have been leaving Huntly, and
there is little to attract them back to the area. Respondents noted that it is possible to bring
businesses to the town if there were similar investments such as in places like Kintore and
Inverurie.

The key employers in Huntly are primarily the supermarkets and care homes which provide
low paid work opportunities. There is a lack of employment opportunities for young people,
and career progression in Huntly, unless you know who to ask.

One positive idea to come out of the pandemic is the return to remote working which may
bring people to the area looking for improved work-life balance, with opportunities to bring
people to live and work in a rural environment without having to travel to the city.

“Definitely not enough work opportunities or businesses for the population of Huntly, the
majority of people need to travel to find skilled/well paid work.”

“Few opportunities for work within the community, what work there is is mainly low paid, retail
work with little to no prospect of career development. Very few education options within the
community to develop work skills.”

“Could always be better and post-covid the opportunities can be created to allow people to
live and work in a rural environment without having to travel to a city.”

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 21

Do the homes in Huntly meet the needs of the community?

656 answered in 2018.

210 answered in 2021.

Generally, the theme for Housing in Huntly is seen as average, with a variety of responses
from positive, neutral and negative aspects from individuals depending on their own
requirements for housing.

Many saw the range of available housing to be adequate considering the population and size
of Huntly, some of these reasons were noted to be based on private housing. Those who
had a neutral viewpoint or were unsure, most often were homeowners themselves, and not
aware of the social housing options available.

Overall, there are calls for high quality, accessible rental properties, both private and social
and to look at meeting the demand with new builds with enough bedrooms for families.
There are also requirements for young people to be able to buy one or two bedroom
properties to start on the property ladder.

A new theme has emerged since the last survey, with the prices of fuel soaring, properties
need to be carbon-efficient and well insulated. Conservation regulations are seen as
outdated by many to be able to maintain a property at an affordable price.

“Needs now include low carbon heating with financial help so that fuel poverty is addressed
at the same time. Poor energy efficiency at a time when energy costs are very high.”

“Too many private rentals at high prices need more affordable housing.”

“Limited affordable housing for incoming families. Existing housing generally of poor
standard, high cost of buying, maintaining and heating.”

“Yes but more clarity on conservation zone maintenance would help and knowing if financial
support is available.”

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 22

Is there a range of spaces and opportunities to meet
people in Huntly?

676 answered in 2018.

215 answered in 2021.

The spaces to meet people were considered to be better pre-Covid, with lots of groups and
organisations to go to, particularly for sporting and recreational activities. There are less
nowadays, and of those that exist, the outdoor spaces and activities are still considered to
be a strong point in Huntly.

Opportunities to meet indoors are very limited, particularly in the evenings. There are pubs in
the area, but not always considered welcoming, and some respondents would prefer to have
a space that doesn’t focus on drinking.

Lack of café culture is an ongoing issue, places to meet to have a coffee and socialise are
missed along with a lack of range in options of food and drink spots.

“If you enjoy the outdoors then definitely but indoors spaces are certainly lacking.”

“Plenty of clubs available but more communication is needed to promote them.”

“Limited, No 30 won't be ready until 2023/24 and no facilities for indoor sports or larger
meeting groups. Existing space is not fit for modern requirements.”

“Harder to meet people as a young single person moving into Huntly.”

“Deveron Projects Food Chain has been a highlight, the Christmas Craft Fair and the
monthly market.”

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 23

Does Huntly have a positive identity and do I feel I belong
to it?

682 answers in 2018.

218 answered in 2021.

Overall, Huntly has rated slightly above average as a town in regards to identity and
belonging. There are a variety of responses and reasons behind the answers split across
positive, neutral and negative. There is a general sense of positivity about the identity of
Huntly, and many consider it to be a friendly place. The positives are predominantly from
being resident here for a long time, with a few newcomers finding it a refreshing and
welcoming change.

There is a strong pride in Huntly’s heritage and spaces, but many have mentioned it is in
decline, and lost its way , they are concerned for the future identity of the town. The most
notable reason relates to the poor condition of the town centre and empty buildings.

Many believe there is a strong community spirit, and a feeling of possibility around positive
future changes. There continues to be somewhat of a perceived divide that separates ‘locals’
and ‘newcomers’. Locals are sometimes considered unwelcoming to newcomers and can
come across cliquey, and on occasions, xenophobic. Newcomers are perceived to be
damaging to the sense of identity in Huntly.

“Getting better but more events to bring more people to the town e.g. summer show, bonfire
night, seasonal events would give the town a better reputation and bring in people from other
places.”

“I moved here eight years ago knowing little about the town but there is a great sense of
community here that is inspiring.”

“The town looks a little more active (but after the lockdowns of last year this may be illusion);
there are still things that look bad, such as the Huntly Hotel; but on days like the farmers
market there is a good feel which brings me a little pride in the town.”

“Not as positive as it used to be. There are divides within the community.”

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 24

Do I feel safe in Huntly?

664 answered in 2018.

220 answered in 2021.

Huntly is considered to be a very safe place to live, with a score of 5. The results show that
the majority of people in Huntly feel safe here all or most of the time.

A few people don’t feel as safe at night time, and better lighting was encouraged. Some
respondents don’t feel there is enough police presence and some have noted recent
burglaries leading them to feel less safe.

Specific problems have been highlighted; most notably anti-social driving and drug related
issues.

There is a divide between a small number of people, equally for and against CCTV.

“Little high end crime but in recent years there is too much anti-social behaviour that spoils
things for many people.”

“Lack of street lighting in some areas for walking (meadows, battlehill, bahill) which make me
feel less safe as a woman, especially given dark nights.”

“No issue with safety - one of the safest places to live and bring up a family.”

“During the daytime, yes, but at night there are some people who commit petty crimes and
generally make others feel unsafe. Quite a lot are drug related.”

“Have never felt threatened in Huntly, other than young drivers racing in Gordon St.”

“I do feel safe but I also regularly see drug dealing.”

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 25

Are Huntly’s buildings and public spaces well cared for?

691 answered in 2018.

218 answered in 2021.

Overall, the care and maintenance theme has received more negative responses, and a
lower rating than all of the other themes in the How’s Huntly survey. Over twelve percent of
respondents gave it the worst score when grading care and maintenance.

Of the 218 respondents to this question, 117 followed with specific reasons, only two of
which were positive, forty-two were neutral, and seventy-three were negative, showing
growing concerns.

Many commented on the beauty of architecture in Huntly, but the negative issue highlighted
most often was the neglect and poor care of public and private buildings. The vacant and
underused buildings in the town centre were pointed out as the biggest concern, followed by
the Huntly Hotel.

Respondents were much more positive about parks and outdoor public spaces, suggesting
they are well maintained by the council and cared for by the public. The flower beds and
Christmas lights were referenced as positive efforts by the public.

Conservation area regulations make maintenance costs for many of the old buildings
expensive.

Bins for dog mess are missing, resulting in dirty pavements.

“Some of the public buildings are in need of repairs”

“Buildings poorly maintained, street furniture not looked after. Recreation areas not kept tidy
and play equipment not promptly repaired.”

“Floral displays and festive decorations make the town feel cared for. The hotel in the
Square is an issue due to neglect.”

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 26

Do I feel able to take part in decisions and make changes
for the better?

738 answered in 2018.

203 answered in 2021.

There was variation across respondents on whether they felt able to take part in decisions
and affect change for the better in Huntly. From those who chose to give specific feedback,
there’s almost an equal number of positive, neutral and negative reasons, but overall, an
improvement has been made.

Some respondents felt like they knew where or who to go to have their view heard. Some of
whom are actively involved with Huntly Development Trust, the Community Council and
other local projects. Others feel unheard, some are unsure about who and how to approach,
regarding their views.

Respondents varied between feeling over-consulted and then seeing little action, to having
never been asked their opinions until now. Others welcome the surveys and consultations
and actively get involved, feeling positive about future change.

There is a perception among some that decisions have already been made at a higher level,
or by the same people repeatedly, and that consultations don’t make a difference, existing to
support pre-determined views.

“This is the first time my opinions have been sought.”

“Would prefer to see more clearly the actions taken as a result of the many previous surveys. Also
feels like it’s the same group of people who are involved in most community groups so need to look
at why locals aren’t getting more involved.”

“There are plenty of opportunities to get your voice heard - HDT and the Town Team are prime
examples of this. Voluntary opportunities are plentiful in the town so being involved is easy.”

How’s Huntly? Results of 2021 Place Standards Survey 27