Despite being in lockdown, the community of Chapelton couldn’t see Rabbie Burns day pass without celebration. Join us in a reading of Burns’ famous poem Address to a Haggis. How did we do?
We hope you and your family had a lovely Rabbie Burns Night!
Monthly Archives: January 2021
Meet the residents: Kelsey and Iain
Kelsey and Iain Cumming were ready to move property as they started the next chapter in life as a newlywed couple. Keen to switch from their one bedroom flat in the city of Aberdeen to somewhere with more space, they discovered Chapelton – right next to their wedding venue.
What was your first impression of Chapelton?
Speaking of their recent move, Kelsey said: “It was back in 2018 when we were visiting our wedding venue, Elsick House, that we came across Chapelton. Despite the town being just five miles south of Aberdeen we had never heard of it before but as soon as we saw the style of the properties and landscape we knew we would one day end up living here.
“From the moment that we set foot in Chapelton we could tell that it’s somewhere completely different. Every street has its own individual character – it really doesn’t feel like most new build developments.
What kind of home were you in the market for?
“We spent some time researching the various housetypes available and were pleased to choose a ZeroC home. We were instantly drawn to the spacious rooms, the high ceilings and unique details, such as the wood burning stove and herringbone flooring. These were all things that we wanted from a new home but didn’t think would be possible with buying somewhere modern.
“The light and airy feel of the kitchen was also a huge sell to us. We’ve added a large table, where we enjoy long meals together and can’t wait to entertain friends and family when that’s possible. In this room, and others throughout the house, we’ve used a mix of traditional, modern and industrial décor – my Pinterest inspiration boards are quite eclectic!
Do you feel settled in Chapelton?
“We’re really proud of our new home and how we’ve already made it feel our own. So much so that we started an Instagram account (@no19_ourforeverhome) to document our journey and also hopefully inspire others with what you can do with a new build space.
“Of course this past year has been an unusual time to move home but despite that we’ve already made friends in Chapelton. The layout of the town, local facilities and abundance of green space makes it really easy to meet and socialise with neighbours in a safe way. Everyone has been incredibly friendly and we know that we’ll be living here for years to come. It’s a special place made even more special by the fact that it’s right next to where we were married.”
Chapelton continues to grow with new properties added
Chapelton is continuing to grow, with plans being shaped for the introduction of additional homes throughout 2021.
The community continues to be a popular option for a mix of house buyers who are keen to benefit from countryside living yet within close proximity to the city.
All four housebuilders have new properties in the plans for next year. AJC will be starting to build homes around the park at Wolrige Gardens, ZeroC has houses under construction including a new shared equity scheme and Stephen will be offering more of its successful Melfort house-type, amongst others. Plans are also proceeding for six plots to be released on the southern boundary of the town for self-build.
Award-winning local housebuilder Snowdrop Developments has also started to build on site and will be opening a showhome here in Chapelton, offering prospective buyers the chance to see what their new home in the town could look like.
Nearly 200 homes are now occupied in Chapelton, and we are looking forward to welcoming new community members and residents throughout 2021.
Get green fingers this winter
Although stepping outside into the frosty cold may not be the most appealing idea, some time spent in the garden or an allotment will bring plenty of rewards come spring.
Here in Chapelton, members of the Cairnhill Community Allotment Association have been able to remain active on plots during COVID-19 and throughout the pandemic have found the green space an area for safe activity and wellbeing.
Some of the original plot holders may have given up their allotment sites but with plenty of enthusiastic new members joining, the waiting list continues to grow. Those keen to get green fingers can contact info@cairnhillallotments.uk to share their interest, but in the meantime here are some ways to keep your own garden or allotment flourishing this winter.
Prune for productivity
The colder months are great for maintaining allotments or fruit and veg patches. Use this time to prune blackcurrants, gooseberries and redcurrants to control their shape, size and increase their productivity.
Cut off the old foliage from strawberry plants to allow new leaves to come through. Cairnhill Community Allotment Association recommends cutting to about 10cm (4in) above the crown for the best results. Reduce pests and diseases by cleaning away the cut foliage or other debris from around the plants.
Keep up maintenance
Recently, the allotment association has been focusing on maintenance around the plots. Members have pruned the beech hedges around the perimeter fence and laid bark under the hedge to prevent weeds. Spring flowering bulbs have also been planted in areas around the site which will bring a lovely display of flowers in the coming months.
In addition, at the south end of the site, an area has been levelled with bark laid as preparation for a new seating area. A senior pupil at Mackie Academy was very helpful in making two picnic benches which are now in place – we can’t wait to put our feet up!
Create rich soil
It’s not too late to lift and divide large clumps of rhubarb, replanting the outer sections into soil enriched with well-rotted manure. Alternatively, select a large clump to force for an early crop in the spring.
Start planning
If it’s too cold to go outside, you can stay inside and plan a garden or allotment plot for next year. December and January are the traditional months for placing seed orders.
Thanks to the Cairnhill Community Allotment Association for their excellent tips and tricks.
