A hearing will be held to consider a controversial development at an Aberdeenshire beauty spot after locals lodged almost 500 objections.
The plans for 400 homes at Braehead, Auchattie, Banchory, will be discussed at the public meeting in the town’s Hill of Banchory primary school on Monday, April 20.
The proposals will go before Aberdeenshire Council’s Marr area committee on Tuesday, May 5, and the full council on June 18, when a decision is expected to be made.
The pre-determination talks will give the public and developers a chance to share their views with councillors in advance.
A planning application in principle has been lodged by Turriff-based Sandlaw Farming for 300 rented homes, 75 affordable homes and 25 assisted-living apartments.
A total of 481 objections were lodged against the application – which was also opposed by Scottish Natural Heritage.
Protestors raised fears about the knock-on effect on neighbouring roads and schools, as well as local wildlife.
Last night, Mike Adams of the Scolty Redevelopment group, which led the opposition to the proposals, said: “We’ll definitely be attending and encouraging many people to attend.
“We have a robust supply of housing in the current local development plan and we will be pushing that this is an untouched landscape. In our opinion it would have a major impact for the local wildlife.
“We would again highlight the fact that the approved developments within Banchory are all to the north and the east, making it easier for commuters without them having to get across the Feugh Bridge which is historic and B-listed.”
Sandlaw Farming spokesman Colin Lidell said his group aimed to show councillors how the development would “address the housing needs of Banchory.
He added: “We will certainly address the issues that have been raised by the people who are objecting to the scheme and some of the points written in support of the scheme – that is the people who can’t find a house in Banchory.
“It is a good opportunity for the council to actually provide a substantial number of homes that are affordable. We feel very strongly that we have addressed every issue raised.”
Those who have commented on the plans already can apply to speak at the hearing by calling 01975 564804 or e-mailing Ann.Riddell@aberdeenshire.gov.uk before April 17.
The meeting takes place at 7pm in the school’s gym hall.