Thousands sign petition against Stonehaven Orange Lodge parade

Thousands of people have signed a petition against an Orange Lodge parade in Stonehaven next month.

A proposal for the procession was submitted to mark the opening of a new Orange Lodge in Stonehaven Town Hall.

It was submitted by William Henry who says around 200 people are expected to march from the town hall to Dunnottar Church on 16 March.

Plans for the parade will be discussed at the Kincardine and Mearns committee meeting next week.

Petition launched

The petition - which has gained over 4,800 signatures since Monday - was launched by Neil Young who claims the parade will disrupt the "peaceful streets" of the costal town.

The petition reads: "The Orange Order, an organisation with a history of anti-Catholic and anti-Irish hostility, is planning to march through the peaceful streets of Stonehaven and parade to Dunnottar Church on March 16th.

"This group's traditions, music, marches and practices are deeply rooted in sectarianism. Not only would this event - with 200 marchers 'bussed in' - severely disrupt daily activities and cause significant traffic congestion, but it also risks poisoning our peaceful environment.

"We have seen too often elsewhere how Orange Order parades foment a threatening atmosphere, and can spill over into violence and abuse. This intimidatory practice cannot be justified on the grounds of freedom of expression."

"We urge all within the local authority, and local political parties, to use their power and influence to prevent this event. Put the peace, unity and welfare of our community first."

Aberdeen Central MSP Kevin Stewart has written to Aberdeenshire Council objecting to the parade claiming the North East has a "history of avoiding" Orange Lodge marches.

He has asked for the local authority to consider the signatures of the petition when the local committee meets to discuss the proposals.

"Significant interest" for lodge in Stonehaven

The Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland says there as been a "significant interest" from local people to open a lodge in the town.

In a statement, the organisation said: "The Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland are delighted that a new Lodge will be opening in Stonehaven.

"Residents in Stonehaven and surrounding areas applied to open a new lodge last year to which The Grand Lodge of Scotland in session approved.

"Many of the Brethren who will be in this new lodge are current members and had been traveling from Stonehaven to other lodges in surrounding towns like Aberdeen, Forfar, Peterhead, and Perth and with significant interest from local people in Stonehaven it was agreed that those numbers warranted a new lodge opening in Stonehaven.

"As with most new lodges a parade to celebrate the opening has been arranged and notification provided to Aberdeenshire Council and Police Scotland.

"The Parade will also remember those many covenanters in Stonehaven who were tortured and murdered for their reformed faith and a wreath will be laid in remembrance of their sacrifice."