Councillors have backed the expansion of a tiny north-east village, despite concerns about schoolchildren facing road chaos on their way to school.
Banff and Buchan area committee met yesterday to approve plans to build 10 new homes in Rathen, but was told the decision could transform the village into a scene from the 1975 Sylvester Stallone film, Death Race 2000.
Many local people fear the influx of people moving into the new development – which includes a mix of four and five-bedroom properties – will endanger safety on the community’s narrow roads, which have no pavements.
One resident, who wrote a letter to planners objecting to the proposal, even compared the outcome to an action film.
Robert Sinclair said: “For two short periods every school day, the lane outside my house appears to be a re-run of the movie Death Race 2000.
“The traffic comprises parents from the settlement, from other feeder areas, school buses and taxis. This will be significantly increased by the development.
“So, although it is a short walk during these periods, it is a very dangerous walk due to the complete lack of pavements.”
Fraserburgh firm, Colaren Homes, is behind the scheme and was represented at yesterday’s meeting by Knight Frank planner Gary Purves who claimed he did not foresee why parents would have to drive their youngsters to school.
He added: “The school is 300 metres or less from the development.
“So I would be surprised if anyone from the development used their car to take their kids to school.
“The developer has been willing to listen to the concerns of the residents and planning service. It’s a unique site, and it has got unique challenges. We’re embracing these.”
Councillors were split between approving the scheme outright and delaying a decision until later this month, allowing time for a site visit.
But Rathen councillor Brian Topping’s motion to approve the development was pushed through by committee chairman John Cox.
Mr Topping said: “I think in some cases, there has been over-the-top concerns expressed.”
Knight Frank planner Gary Purves, agent for the developer, said there has been “pro-active” consultation with local people.
He added: “The development includes a bus turning area which will allow the academy school bus to safely pick-up children, and there is also a footpath in the development to encourage new residents to walk to the primary school and village hall.”
