Plans to transform a derelict Aberdeenshire piggery into a holiday lodge development have been submitted to the council.
The existing buildings at Dowrieburn, near Fettercairn, would be demolished to make way for 57 holiday chalets.
In submitting the application, the developers, Monarch Leisure and Park Homes Ltd have taken account of concerns expressed by nearby residents at a public meeting last month regarding safety on the narrow C-Class road around the site.
Following discussions with officials from Aberdeenshire Council Roads Department, the application contains proposals for new passing places along the public road which would be built and paid for by the developer.
Another report included in the application is an independent consultant’s report which emphasises the number of vehicles entering and leaving the site is unlikely to exceed one every fifteen minutes.
The proposals include the creation of an “luxury” holiday destination featuring landscaped grounds, walkways, fishing ponds and a nature observation tower.
One objection has been received, since the plans were lodged, from Dr Richard Shelton of Laurencekirk.
He stated: “I am not convinced that a development on this scale, which dwarfs the housing in its vicinity, is appropriate on a single track road with two narrow, weak bridges – even where passing places are provided.”
Mr Alan Seath, the planning consultant submitting the application on behalf of the developer, said: “This development is on the site of a contaminated, derelict eyesore.
“What we propose would improve the environment and it would create jobs – eight fulltime staff in the finished development and 15 during construction.”
