Plans for the future of land formerly occupied by an Aberdeenshire town’s academy were revealed to the public for the first time yesterday.
The former Ellon Academy on Schoolhill Road shut down when its pupils were relocated to the new purpose-built Ellon Academy Community Campus on Kellie Pearl Way in 2015.
The land has remained empty ever since, but yesterday Aberdeenshire Council invited curious residents to discover the authority’s proposals for the site.
The council’s early plans for the site include around 50 homes, a percentage of which would be affordable, health and social care facilities, and new council offices.
Under the plans, the council’s current properties throughout the town, including those on Bridge Street, would be moved closer to the police and fire station – meaning more shop fronts in the busiest part of Ellon would be made available.
Ellon and District councillor Anouk Kloppert said the consultation attracted a great number of residents keen to find out more about the future of their community.
She said: “Although these are just outlines right now, overall I’m very supportive of what I’ve seen so far, and I’m very happy that so many people came to the consultation despite the snow.
“A lot of people are really passionate about what’s going on Ellon, and they’ve been very happy with the proposals for the health hub, civic hub and residential areas.
“New homes are very much needed in Ellon, especially ones with affordable rents, so for those with less opportunities to live in places like Ellon these new homes would make a big difference.
“There is also the possibility of increased footfall throughout the town, as well as new opportunities for new shops and businesses – and of course many people are enthusiastic that something is finally being done with the old Ellon Academy land.”
Ellon residents Wilson and Debbie Murison were two of the many visitors at yesterday’s consultation.
Mrs Wilson said: “We’re generally positive about these ideas. I like the suggestions that have been made for each of the areas, and there’s definitely a need for affordable homes in Ellon.”
