A derelict site in a north-east town could be transformed into a brand new supermarket if plans submitted by the Co-operative are backed.
The supermarket chain wants to build a new shop at Buchan Street in Macduff on land that used to be a petrol station.
The application comes more than a decade after two houses were approved there but never built.
The 17,000sqft unit has been heralded as an “attractive proposition” by Inverurie firm William Lippe Architects, the agents behind the scheme.
William Lippe said that the shop, on the main road out of the port, would stop shoppers leaving the town but not detract from high street businesses.
“The proposal supports jobs, further development in the town, creates infrastructure to help create a sustainable mixed community, makes efficient use of the transport network and is accessible by public transport, cycling and walking,” the firm said.
“The proposal would not threaten the town centre but it would strengthen the town’s retail offer. It is a highly accessible site for all modes of transport and for walking.
The development will stop leakage of expenditure to other areas and will provide valuable employment.”
Ten parking spaces would be created for the shop, including two family spaces and one for disabled people.
Council officers have said that the site poses no risk to human safety, despite high levels of contamination being found.
The former petrol station was inspected in 2004 as part of a planning application to build homes on the site.
In a letter addressing the new scheme, scientific officer Adam Ritchie said there was no risk to humans, wildlife or the environment.
“On the basis of the information we hold I am satisfied that no further investigation of the site is required in support of the current proposals,” he added.
The local authority’s roads department has also backed the shop.