Controversial plans to extend a north-east waste and recycling centre will go back before Aberdeenshire councillors today.
The proposals by Aberdeen-based firm EIS Waste Services to create a stone cleaning plant and wash pods at Gallowhill, Nigg have been recommended for approval despite local concerns.
The site would be located near the hamlet of Checkbar, in a zone of greenbelt land.
The Kincardine and Mearns area committee will discuss the proposals in Stonehaven following a site visit today.
Planning chiefs have backed the plans, despite 41 objections from locals citing concerns about smells, noise levels, dust, visual impact and its closeness to their homes.
If granted, a Terex washing system and five washing lagoons would be established within the facility and used to transform aggregate from demolition sites into construction material to be sold on.
EIS say the plans are an extension of the facilities in Nigg and argue proposed bunds would block out the views of the site itself.
The firm also said it would work within the noise limits set by the council.
Councillors were due to discuss the plans at the last meeting of the committee on October 27, but deferred the decision for a site visit.
Director of infrastructure services Stephen Archer said: “Indeed, the site is located adjacent to an existing waste management facility and the Aberdeenshire side of the greenbelt.
“It is not considered that the development would further affect the character and landscape setting of Checkbar to a significant extent.”
However Checkbar resident Glenn McKay, said: “This proposal is not in line with the aim of the greenbelt areas, which include maintaining the identity of Aberdeen and the communities, maintaining the landscape settings and providing access to open
space.”
The Portlethen Community Council have also voiced their concerns about the project due to the proximity of the development to neighbouring homes.
Chairman Ron Sharp said the development is “in the wrong place” and added: “I wouldn’t be happy if someone came and built that in my back garden”.