Angus News
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Angus in Focus: Local Economy, Housing, and Political Agendas
Angus Council's Financial Health and Future Angus unaudited annual accounts for the year ending March 31, 2025, have been released, providing a detailed look at the Council's financial performance and the broader policy environment. The report outlines the Council's plans to make Angus "a great place to live, work, and visit," emphasising strengthened partnerships with communities and various sectors to efficiently target resources. This comes amidst recent shifts in the Council's political administration, which saw further changes in April and May 2025.
Local Property Market Sees Continued Growth
The real estate market in Angus continues to show positive trends. In April 2025, the average house price in Angus reached £165,000, marking a 2.2% increase from the previous year. Private rents in the Dundee and Angus broad rental market area also rose to an average of £840 in May 2025, an annual increase of 4.4%. This aligns with broader Scottish trends, where property values have remained stable or seen gentle rises, partly due to a recent Bank of England interest rate cut to 4.25% in May 2025.
Political Debates and Economic Concerns
Scottish MSPs, including those representing Angus, have been actively engaged in parliamentary debates. Discussions in late June 2025 included motions on "Independence (Democratic Infrastructure)" and the "Employment Rights Bill," reflecting ongoing political and legal considerations. Nationally, the UK labour market saw an increase in the unemployment rate to 4.6% in February-April 2025, the highest in nearly four years. Businesses are grappling with rising costs, influencing recruitment plans. Local Angus representatives continue to advocate for rural areas, with discussions highlighting the economic viability of remote communities.
Angus Council Backs Balmossie Fire Station Bid
In a decisive move, Angus Council passed an emergency motion supporting efforts to save Balmossie fire station from closure. The proposal, driven by community safety concerns, has sparked renewed debate over regional resource allocation and public service funding.
£2.3M Housing Project Planned for Carnoustie
Plans are underway for a £2.3 million housing development on the former Carnoustie school site. The project aims to address local housing demand and stimulate real estate growth, with proposals expected within weeks.
Angus IJB Reviews Budget and Staffing Strategy
The Angus Integration Joint Board met on June 25 to review its 2025/26 budget settlement with NHS Tayside and approve its statutory staffing report under the Health and Care (Staffing) (Scotland) Act 2019. Employment and care service planning remain key priorities
Angus Agri-Tech Sector Secures £20M Investment Boost
Headline: Innovation Hub to Create 150 Jobs in Precision Farming
Angus's agricultural sector received a major boost this week as the Scottish Government and private investors pledged £20M to develop a new agri-tech innovation center near Forfar. The project, expected to create 150 high-skilled jobs by 2026, aims to position Angus as a leader in sustainable farming technology. Local politicians hailed the investment, though opposition members questioned the timing ahead of next year's council elections.
Angus Council Approves Controversial Housing Development
Headline: *500-Home Project Greenlit Despite Local Opposition*
After months of debate, Angus Council approved plans for a major housing development outside Arbroath, with 35% designated as affordable homes. The decision came despite protests from residents concerned about infrastructure strain. Real estate analysts note the approval could ease the area's housing shortage but warn of potential price drops for existing properties nearby.
Tourism Boom Drives Record Employment in Angus
Headline: Hospitality Sector Hiring Spree as Visitor Numbers Soar
With summer tourism in full swing, Angus reported its lowest unemployment rate (3.2%) in a decade. Hotels and restaurants across the region are offering signing bonuses to attract staff, particularly in coastal towns like Montrose. Economic experts credit the staycation trend and improved rail links for the surge, though some businesses struggle with wage inflation.
Legal Battle Erupts Over Angus Wind Farm
Headline: Local Farmers Challenge Renewable Energy Project in Court
A group of Angus landowners filed suit to halt a proposed wind farm expansion near Brechin, claiming breach of agricultural land protections. The case, expected to set precedents for rural development, comes as the Scottish Government pushes its 2030 renewable energy targets. Legal experts predict a protracted court battle.
Political Scandal Rocks Angus Council Ahead of By-Election
Headline: C. Resigns Amid Expenses Investigation
With a critical by-election looming, Angus Council's ruling party faces turmoil after a senior cresigned over questionable expense claims. Opposition leaders demand greater transparency, while political analysts suggest the scandal could shift voting intentions in traditionally safe seats. The by-election is set for August 14th.
News
Angus Council has approved plans for a £12 million redevelopment of Arbroath Harbour, aiming to boost the local fishing industry and tourism. Meanwhile, emergency services responded to a major wildfire in the Glen Clova area, with no injuries reported but significant damage to heathland.
Business News
The Arbroath Smokie producers have secured Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, expected to increase exports by 20%. Edzell Microbrewery has expanded distribution across Scotland after a successful crowdfunding campaign.
Economic News
Unemployment in Angus remains low at 3.5%, with growth in food processing and renewable energy sectors. However, rising energy costs have forced several small businesses in Forfar to close. Average house prices have increased by 6% year-on-year.
Political News
Angus Council is debating a controversial 15% council tax increase to fund social care services. The Scottish Government has pledged £5 million to improve A90 safety measures following fatal accidents near Montrose.
Election News
Campaigning intensifies for the Angus South by-election, called after the resignation of SNP MSP Clare Adamson. Key issues include NHS waiting times and rural broadband access, with polls showing a tight race between SNP and Conservatives.
Employment News
GlaxoSmithKline’s Montrose plant is recruiting 50 new staff for vaccine production. Carnoustie Golf Links has announced 30 seasonal jobs ahead of The Open Championship warm-up events.
Business News
Shares in Dundee-based DC Thomson rose 5% after acquiring Angus Weekly News Group. Scottish Salmon Company stocks dipped 3% due to warmer sea temperatures affecting production.
Entertainment News
Brechin’s Caledonian Theatre opens its summer season with Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The Montrose Music Festival returns with rs Texas and The Fratellis.
Upcoming Events in Angus (June 29 – July 5, 2025)
Brechin Bike and Trike Fest: Saturday, July 5, 2025, at Brechin Public Park. This event showcases hundreds of motorcycles and trikes, including a scenic ride through the Angus countryside.
The Scottish Transport Extravaganza: Saturday, July 12 - Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Glamis Castle. Scotland's largest vintage vehicle show, featuring over 1700 classic cars, parades, pipe bands, crafts, and family fun.
Taking Secrets to the Grave - Montrose: Friday, July 11, 2025, at The Montrose Playhouse | Cinema & Art Centre. Check local listings for exact times and ticket information for this intriguing event.
The Kimberleys at Lodge at Lochside Wee Bear Café: Friday, July 18, 2025, in Angus. An opportunity to enjoy live music in a cozy setting.
Potterfest at Greenhillock: Friday, July 18 - Sunday, July 20, 2025, near Forfar. A themed festival for fans of a certain magical world.
Kirriemuir Agricultural Show 2025: Saturday, July 19, 2025, in Kirriemuir. A traditional agricultural show with livestock, entertainment, and a strong community spirit.
When We Were Young - The Webster Memorial Theatre: Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at The Webster Memorial Theatre in Arbroath. A performance with a nostalgic theme.
R K and Friends - The Webster Memorial Theatre: Thursday, July 24, 2025, at The Webster Memorial Theatre in Arbroath. An evening of comedy with the popular comedian.
DEBRA Fest 2025: Saturday, July 26, 2025, in Montrose. A festival likely raising awareness and funds for the DEBRA charity.
The Forfar Witches Story: A Guided Walk: Various dates from Thursday, August 21, 2025, to Thursday, October 23, 2025, starting from Forfar Library. Explore the historical and intriguing stories of the Forfar Witches.
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