A disused council building in a north-east town could be transformed into a social housing unit and advice centre.
A continuing campaign to transform the former groundsmen’s depot at Portlethen into a new facility has taken a step forward after the building was released by Aberdeenshire Council’s education department.
The depot and adjoining Mosside Cottages in Berrymuir Road have been transferred to the social work and housing department for its use.
Portlethen councillor Paul Melling said: “I have been hoping to find a use for this site for some considerable time.
“It now appears that this site will be released for social housing in partnership with (disability charity) Cornerstone.
“In addition, a purpose-built centre to house a citizen advice centre, a coffee shop and Befriend A Child centre, with outside play area for toddlers, will be incorporated on to the site.”
A report on the transfer of the building between council sectors will go before Kincardine and Mearns area committee in the coming months.
A council spokeswoman said the transfer was a “useful step” towards progressing plans for the site.
Cornerstone chief executive Edel Harris said: “Cornerstone is working with Aberdeenshire Council to identify a suitable site in Portlethen for a new social housing development.
“The new development will support people with disabilities and help us to achieve our aim of enabling the people we support to enjoy a valued life .
“This year Cornerstone is celebrating 30 years of delivering high-quality services to people with disabilities and other support needs. We are looking forward to the many plans for our future as we support even more people in the community.”
North Kincardine councillor Ian Mollison said it was “great news” that progress had been made on the project.
“Further meetings will be arranged to discuss the final details and obviously planning consent will be required for the change of use of this site,” he said.