Options for a new transport exchange in a north-east town will be discussed in private at a meeting next week.
The project to turn a disused freight yard at Inverurie Rail Station into an interchange which would include bus stops, footpaths and cycling facilities along with parking was first proposed as far back as 2002.
A report outlining the detailed design options will be discussed by the Garioch area committee when it meets in Inverurie on Tuesday.
The Press and Journal understands that the three options for the site range from £3.2million to £4.7million.
Aberdeenshire East MSP Alex Salmond has kept up pressure on the authority to progress the project after Network Rail revealed in April that it was in a position to begin transferring the ownership of the land.
He said: “This is a crucial stage in the development of the much needed Inverurie Transport Interchange.
“Once the council has decided on their preferred design option the proposals can go forward to Network Rail and Scotrail for approval.
“The demand for increased parking in the town centre is always high up the agenda for the business community, for commuters and for local residents.
“The new transport hub will address this problem and greatly improve public transport links.”
The options also include provision for up to 240 spaces and a new bus facility at the station, which would remove some of the congestion caused by vehicles stopping outside the Town Hall.
Inverurie councillor Hamish Vernal said: “Parking ranks highly in the concerns of residents in general and the business community in particular.
“This much needed facility has moved a step closer and is to be welcomed by all.”