Plans for a golf course designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus could be thrown out this week.
The Fm Group want to build an 18-hole championship course and 90 homes on the Ury Estate, near Stonehaven.
But planners have recommended the scheme be refused because of their impact on Slicewells Forest, as some of the ancient trees could be felled.
The Woodland Trust is campaigning against the project, while the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency, Historic Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage and the Forestry Commission Scotland also raising concerns.
However, members of the Kincardine and Mearns area committee last month backed the scheme – arguing it would be “something really special” for the area and that there were “exceptional circumstances” justifying approval.
Meanwhile, planning officers have also recommended that councillors reject plans for 300 homes at Braehead, south of Banchory.
More than 600 objections have been raised against the proposal to build 300 homes – 200 private rent, 75 affordable units and 25 assisted-living apartments – near Scolty Hill.
An earlier draft submission of 400 homes was rejected by councillors last year.
And planners believe the revised plans should also be rejected, amid concern about the visual impact the development would have on the picturesque site beside the River Dee.
Both proposals will be discussed by the full council at Aberdeenshire Council’s headquarters, Woodhill House, on Thursday.
