Latest news with #JohnDuncan
Daily Record
5 days ago
- Business
- Daily Record
Ayrshire farm's tourism plan is blocked by East Ayrshire Council
Owners at Blackstone Clydesdales, based at Blackstone Farm, Rigg Road, Cumnock, previously lodged proposals with East Ayrshire Council for consideration. A family-run farm in Ayrshire has been blocked in a bid to enhance their offering to tourists by introducing a Shepherd's Hut and 'sitootery.' Owners at Blackstone Clydesdales, based at Blackstone Farm, Rigg Road, Cumnock, previously lodged proposals with East Ayrshire Council for consideration. The farm offers unique experiences centred around a select breeding herd of Clydesdale horses and Highland cattle. They were recognised with the Scottish Thistle Award for Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience in 2024 and the farm attracts visitors seeking authentic, hands-on interactions with Scotland's heavy horse heritage. As a result, to enhance the visitor experience and support sustainable tourism, owner John Duncan proposed the addition of a shepherd's hut and sitootery on-site. According to the application this accommodation section would provide guests with 'immersive stays', combining traditional Scottish hospitality with 'modern comforts.' However, council planners have rejected the proposal, citing concerns over flooding and 'no information' relating to biodiversity improvements. A supporting statement from the agents Stairhill Architecture Ltd said: 'The addition of a shepherd's hut will enhance the farm's tourism offerings, attracting more visitors and thereby supporting local employment and economic growth. 'Furthermore, the proposal is compatible with the existing uses and surrounding area in terms of the nature and scale of the activity and impacts of increased visitors. The shepherd's hut will be situated in a tranquil area of the farm, ensuring privacy and scenic views, thereby minimizing any adverse impacts on the local community and environment.' The application says that the business hopes to 'enhance' the visitor experience, 'increase revenue streams,' promote 'sustainable tourism' and provide 'overnight accommodation' with a fully equipped shepherd's hut providing a 'cozy retreat' for guests. Designs show the shepherd's hut with the sitootery also showing a raised viewing area, indoor seating and store. The supporting statement adds: 'The proposals will not only enhance the visitor experience but also contribute to the growth of sustainable tourism in East Ayrshire. 'By offering unique accommodations and immersive farm activities, the business can attract a broader audience and increase its revenue potential. We seek approval for this development to continue providing exceptional experiences that celebrate Scotland's rich agricultural heritage.' Council papers said: 'In principle the development is acceptable but for one main element – lack of flooding information, and one minor element – lack of information on biodiversity enhancement. 'It is recognised that the proposal will help enhance the tourism offer of the area, and is unlikely to cause any unsustainable travel patterns in its own right.' However, the report adds: 'The proposal does not accord with the Development Plan and there are no material considerations that suggest the application be otherwise approved.'
The Advertiser
12-06-2025
- The Advertiser
Bodies found in granny flat: investigation under way into 'suspicious' deaths
Investigators have descended on a leafy, suburban street after two bodies were discovered in a backyard granny flat. The bodies were discovered at 9.30pm on June 11 in the Cannons Parade flat in Forestville on Sydney's Northern Beaches after a friend of the deceased asked police to check on the couple. A man, believed to be aged in his 40s, and a woman, believed to be aged in her 50s, were found at the flat, police said. They are yet to be formally identified. Detective Superintendent John Duncan said the couple hadn't been seen since June 7. They were known to the NSW Police "for minor matters", but the detective superintendent said they had no reported history of domestic violence in NSW. Emergency services forced entry to the flat, as "the premise was secure on police arrival," Detective Superintendent Duncan said. Their cause of death is yet to be established, but the detective superintendent said the bodies suffered lacerations. Three pets - two dogs and a cat - were in the flat with the bodies, police said. The animals were taken to a vet for assessment. "If anybody has any information about any suspicious activity in Cannon's Parade over the last four days, we encourage them to contact either Northern Beaches Police or Crime Stoppers on 1-800-333-000," Detective Superintendent Duncan said. Investigators have established a crime scene, and inquiries under Strike Force Donnybrook have begun into the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or Information is treated in strict confidence. Support is available for those who may be distressed: Phone Lifeline 13 11 14; Men's Referral Service 1300 776 491; 13 Yarn 13 92 76; Kids Helpline 1800 551 800; beyondblue 1300 224 636; 1800-RESPECT 1800 737 732. Investigators have descended on a leafy, suburban street after two bodies were discovered in a backyard granny flat. The bodies were discovered at 9.30pm on June 11 in the Cannons Parade flat in Forestville on Sydney's Northern Beaches after a friend of the deceased asked police to check on the couple. A man, believed to be aged in his 40s, and a woman, believed to be aged in her 50s, were found at the flat, police said. They are yet to be formally identified. Detective Superintendent John Duncan said the couple hadn't been seen since June 7. They were known to the NSW Police "for minor matters", but the detective superintendent said they had no reported history of domestic violence in NSW. Emergency services forced entry to the flat, as "the premise was secure on police arrival," Detective Superintendent Duncan said. Their cause of death is yet to be established, but the detective superintendent said the bodies suffered lacerations. Three pets - two dogs and a cat - were in the flat with the bodies, police said. The animals were taken to a vet for assessment. "If anybody has any information about any suspicious activity in Cannon's Parade over the last four days, we encourage them to contact either Northern Beaches Police or Crime Stoppers on 1-800-333-000," Detective Superintendent Duncan said. Investigators have established a crime scene, and inquiries under Strike Force Donnybrook have begun into the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or Information is treated in strict confidence. Support is available for those who may be distressed: Phone Lifeline 13 11 14; Men's Referral Service 1300 776 491; 13 Yarn 13 92 76; Kids Helpline 1800 551 800; beyondblue 1300 224 636; 1800-RESPECT 1800 737 732. Investigators have descended on a leafy, suburban street after two bodies were discovered in a backyard granny flat. The bodies were discovered at 9.30pm on June 11 in the Cannons Parade flat in Forestville on Sydney's Northern Beaches after a friend of the deceased asked police to check on the couple. A man, believed to be aged in his 40s, and a woman, believed to be aged in her 50s, were found at the flat, police said. They are yet to be formally identified. Detective Superintendent John Duncan said the couple hadn't been seen since June 7. They were known to the NSW Police "for minor matters", but the detective superintendent said they had no reported history of domestic violence in NSW. Emergency services forced entry to the flat, as "the premise was secure on police arrival," Detective Superintendent Duncan said. Their cause of death is yet to be established, but the detective superintendent said the bodies suffered lacerations. Three pets - two dogs and a cat - were in the flat with the bodies, police said. The animals were taken to a vet for assessment. "If anybody has any information about any suspicious activity in Cannon's Parade over the last four days, we encourage them to contact either Northern Beaches Police or Crime Stoppers on 1-800-333-000," Detective Superintendent Duncan said. Investigators have established a crime scene, and inquiries under Strike Force Donnybrook have begun into the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or Information is treated in strict confidence. Support is available for those who may be distressed: Phone Lifeline 13 11 14; Men's Referral Service 1300 776 491; 13 Yarn 13 92 76; Kids Helpline 1800 551 800; beyondblue 1300 224 636; 1800-RESPECT 1800 737 732. Investigators have descended on a leafy, suburban street after two bodies were discovered in a backyard granny flat. The bodies were discovered at 9.30pm on June 11 in the Cannons Parade flat in Forestville on Sydney's Northern Beaches after a friend of the deceased asked police to check on the couple. A man, believed to be aged in his 40s, and a woman, believed to be aged in her 50s, were found at the flat, police said. They are yet to be formally identified. Detective Superintendent John Duncan said the couple hadn't been seen since June 7. They were known to the NSW Police "for minor matters", but the detective superintendent said they had no reported history of domestic violence in NSW. Emergency services forced entry to the flat, as "the premise was secure on police arrival," Detective Superintendent Duncan said. Their cause of death is yet to be established, but the detective superintendent said the bodies suffered lacerations. Three pets - two dogs and a cat - were in the flat with the bodies, police said. The animals were taken to a vet for assessment. "If anybody has any information about any suspicious activity in Cannon's Parade over the last four days, we encourage them to contact either Northern Beaches Police or Crime Stoppers on 1-800-333-000," Detective Superintendent Duncan said. Investigators have established a crime scene, and inquiries under Strike Force Donnybrook have begun into the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or Information is treated in strict confidence. Support is available for those who may be distressed: Phone Lifeline 13 11 14; Men's Referral Service 1300 776 491; 13 Yarn 13 92 76; Kids Helpline 1800 551 800; beyondblue 1300 224 636; 1800-RESPECT 1800 737 732.
Daily Record
11-06-2025
- Business
- Daily Record
New tourism offering could feature shepherd's hut and 'sitootery' on Cumnock farm
Owners at Blackstone Clydesdales, based at Blackstone Farm, Rigg Road, Cumnock, have lodged proposals with East Ayrshire Council for consideration. A family-run farm in Ayrshire hopes to enhance its offering to tourists by introducing a Shepherd's Hut and 'sitootery.' Owners at Blackstone Clydesdales, based at Blackstone Farm, Rigg Road, Cumnock, have lodged proposals with East Ayrshire Council for consideration. The farm offers unique experiences centred around a select breeding herd of Clydesdale horses and Highland cattle. They were recognised with the Scottish Thistle Award for Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience in 2024 and the farm attracts visitors seeking authentic, hands-on interactions with Scotland's heavy horse heritage. As a result, to enhance the visitor experience and support sustainable tourism, owner John Duncan is proposing the addition of a shepherd's hut and sitootery on-site. This accommodation section will provide guests with 'immersive stays', combining traditional Scottish hospitality with 'modern comforts.' A supporting statement from the agents Stairhill Architecture Ltd said: 'The addition of a shepherd's hut will enhance the farm's tourism offerings, attracting more visitors and thereby supporting local employment and economic growth. 'Furthermore, the proposal is compatible with the existing uses and surrounding area in terms of the nature and scale of the activity and impacts of increased visitors. The shepherd's hut will be situated in a tranquil area of the farm, ensuring privacy and scenic views, thereby minimizing any adverse impacts on the local community and environment.' The application says that the business hopes to 'enhance' the visitor experience, 'increase revenue streams,' promote 'sustainable tourism' and provide 'overnight accommodation' with a fully equipped shepherd's hut providing a 'cozy retreat' for guests. Designs show the shepherd's hut with the sitootery also showing a raised viewing area, indoor seating and store. The supporting statement adds: 'The proposals will not only enhance the visitor experience but also contribute to the growth of sustainable tourism in East Ayrshire. 'By offering unique accommodations and immersive farm activities, the business can attract a broader audience and increase its revenue potential. We seek approval for this development to continue providing exceptional experiences that celebrate Scotland's rich agricultural heritage.' A decision on the proposals is expected to be made next month.
Daily Record
09-06-2025
- Daily Record
Police issue urgent appeal to trace missing Ayrshire man who vanished
Frazer John Duncan, 35, was last seen in the Kilwinning Road area of Irvine yesterday afternoon, Sunday, June 8. Police are appealing for information in bid to find a missing Ayrshire man. Frazer John Duncan, 35, was reported missing from his home in Irvine yesterday, Sunday, June 8. He was last seen in the Kilwinning Road area of the town at around 4pm yesterday. Enquiries so far by police have revealed that he is known to frequent the Irvine town centre area. Frazer is described as white Scottish, six feet tall with short, brown hair. He was last seen wearing a grey hoodie over a red Rangers football top, blue tracksuit bottoms and blue trainers. Police are now appealing for information as they seek to trace his whereabouts. A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: "Officers from Ayrshire are seeking the assistance of the public to trace a 35-year-old male missing from Irvine in North Ayrshire. "Frazer John Duncan was last seen near to Kilwinning Road, Irvine about 4pm on Sunday, June 8. "He is described as white Scottish, 6'0', short brown hair and was last seen wearing a grey hoodie over a red Rangers football top, blue tracksuit bottoms and blue trainers. "Extensive enquiries are underway which have so far revealed that Frazer is known to frequent the Irvine town centre area. "Anyone with information is asked to call officers at Irvine Police office on the police non-emergency number, 101, quoting incident 2095 of June 8."
Newsweek
27-05-2025
- Newsweek
California Mayor Issues Warning Over Mexican Sewage Flooding Beaches
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Millions of gallons of sewage, contaminated water and trash flood into California from Mexico every day, and beaches in Coronado, San Diego County, closed over the weekend because of it. The city's mayor has said it risks becoming seen as the "toilet of Mexico," which could lead to a decrease in tourism. Why It Matters The Tijuana River, which crosses from Mexico into California before emptying into the Pacific Ocean, carries not only water but also millions of gallons of untreated sewage. The decades-old problem has sparked both health and environmental concerns. A stock image of a girl at a beach in Coronado, California, on October 4, 2023. A stock image of a girl at a beach in Coronado, California, on October 4, To Know Swimming was prohibited along the Coronado shoreline over Memorial Day weekend as San Diego County extended water contact closures due to ongoing sewage contamination, NBC San Diego reported on Sunday. The closures—which were already in effect for the Tijuana Slough shoreline, Imperial Beach and the Silver Strand—were expanded on Saturday to include Coronado's southwestern-facing beaches, the outlet said. Mayor John Duncan told The New York Times that fewer tourists were booking lodges in the resort city as a result of the forced beach closures. "My biggest concern as mayor is that the reputation as 'the toilet of Mexico' starts to stick at some point and really hurts us," he said. In recent years, San Diego County beaches have faced about 1,000 days of closures due to contamination. Local residents have reported falling ill, and military personnel stationed in the area have also been affected. A report from the Department of Defense's Office of Inspector General recorded 1,100 illness cases among Navy SEALs and other service members exposed to the polluted waters. What People Are Saying James Cooper, a professor at California Western School of Law, previously told Newsweek: "Beaches, north of where the Tijuana River meets the Pacific along the coast from Imperial Beach to Coronado, are closed more often than they are open. The bacterial dangers are immense for those brave enough to get into the Pacific. Surfers who hit the waves, U.S. Navy Seals who train in the area, ranchers whose animals drink water from the watershed, sea mammals who live in the Pacific are all negatively impacted by this ongoing environmental disaster." What Happens Next Lee Zeldin, the administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, said on May 20 that the U.S. International Boundary and Water Commission was fast-tracking an expansion of the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant—which treats sewage and wastewater flow from Tijuana—by 10 million gallons per day in an effort to mitigate the crisis. Zeldin previously said that at a meeting on April 21, Mexican Environmental Secretary Alicia Bárcena conveyed President Claudia Sheinbaum's commitment to building a strong partnership with the U.S. to resolve the issue. "Americans on our side of the border who have been dealing with this for decades are out of patience," Zeldin said at a news conference, as reported by The Epoch Times. "There's a very limited opportunity. What's being communicated by the new Mexican president is an intense desire to fully resolve this situation."
