North-east communities have been asked to share their views on which of Aberdeenshire’s stunning landscapes they consider special and worthy of protection from development.
A wide-ranging public consultation, launched by the local authority, will give local residents the opportunity to say which areas they rate as most valuable.
The feedback will then affect which vistas are given “special landscape” status in the local development plan – the document which guides all public and private development in the region.
Experts and planners have identified 10 potential areas and have put the proposals out for public comment.
These include the landscape of Bennachie, the majority of Aberdeenshire’s coastline and the Deveron, Don and Dee valleys.
Last night, a spokesman for Aberdeenshire Council said: “Landscape is about more than just a view – it is about the relationship between people, place and nature that provides an ever-changing backdrop to our daily lives.
“People value landscapes for different reasons, but it is possible to identify landscapes in Aberdeenshire which are greatly valued and need particular protection.
“This can be due to a range of factors including scenic qualities, cultural associations and opportunities for enjoyment.”
The 10 sites already identified by the council have come from discussions with community councils and landscape consultants.
Every candidate area represents an example of the “best” of Aberdeenshire’s landscape at a local scale.
The Cairngorms National Park is not part of the consultation because there is already existing national recognition of its importance.
The spokesman added: “Aberdeenshire Council thinks these areas should have protection to conserve and enhance their special qualities and so maintain our most special landscapes.”
Planning policy for developments which directly affect special landscapes is much stricter, and individuals and firms submitting designs must do nothing to “erode the special nature of the area”.
This can include ensuring landmarks are protected, and that designs and materials used in developments are sympathetic to the surroundings.
The scheme is open for public comment until May 13 and will shape the supplementary guidance for the Local Development Plan coming into force in the autumn.
Further details are available from the council’s planning policy team on 01224 664421 or by email: ldp@aberdeenshire.gov.uk
