A proposal for the further development of an Aberdeenshire village has angered members of the community and left one describing the plans as an “eyesore”.
Residents in Crathes have hit out at Stewart Milne Group after the company launched a new scheme to build an additional 36 properties in the village.
The firm was given permission to develop an initial 45 homes in Crathes in 2014, and want to expand further, even though just a handful of the properties have been sold.
At a public consultation meeting in June, the new development proved unpopular with local residents and was only allowed to proceed after the building company appealed to the Scottish Government.
Since the plans were formally lodged this week, the Crathes, Drumoak and Durris Community Council has urged people to oppose the application.
The negative feedback continued with local people voicing their concerns online.
Crathes resident, Steve Mitchell, wrote: “The existing development is already an eyesore.
“I can’t believe the justification for this extension is the existing properties are not commercially attractive.
“The fact there are 45 houses now was not what was originally approved. These developers and councillors need to realise Aberdeen and the surrounding areas does not need more housing without infrastructure, schools and a decent transport system.”
The original initiative more than trebled the size of Crathes.
But John Low, managing director of Stewart Milne Homes, defended the development, claiming it met the needs of customers in the area.
He said: “Market demand has changed over time and our proposed plans for Crathes are aimed at providing desirable homes which meet consumers’ needs and level of affordability, in an area that is highly sought after and ideal for family living.
“As we know, first time buyers and young families find it difficult to find homes to suit their needs within Deeside with many forced to leave the area due to limited availability.
“Our proposals will bring homes to Crathes which, up until now, has not catered for this need with a suitable range of house sizes and styles which on completion will ensure a more diverse and vibrant community.”
