The last derelict building at a former Aberdeenshire locomotive works could soon be transformed into a sheltered housing complex.
Work to transform Inverurie Loco Works into a residential and retail unit is ongoing, and next week councillors will be asked to back plans to bring the B-listed foundry building back into use.
Malcolm Allan Housebuilders want to convert it into 34 sheltered housing flats.
The Kintore-based builders originally wanted to demolish all but one wall of the building, but has revised the proposals in consultation with Historic Scotland to maintain its “historic character and integrity”.
Under the plans, there would be a mix of one and two bedroom flats, as well as accommodation for a guest and a warden.
The designs include retaining the south, west and east walls and demolishing a section of the north to make way for a garden for the residents. Full-length windows will also be installed.
Planners are recommending the scheme for approval, despite the council’s environmental health team raising concerns about the noise from neighbouring Tesco superstore at night.
In a report, director of infrastructure services Stephen Archer said that a planning and design statement suggested sheltered accommodation was the “best viable use” of the foundry building.
He adds: “The planning service can appropriately support this application, even with the adverse comments from environmental health.
“This is due to the proposal bringing back into use a derelict B-listed building and would secure the best viable use of it, without undermining its architectural or historic character, or its setting.
“Sheltered accommodation in this location would contribute to a good mix of uses within this town centre location, adding to the vitality and viability of it.”
The Garioch area committee will make a decision on the proposals at their meeting in Inverurie on Tuesday.