A disused and vandalised former hospital could be transformed into homes for dozens of families.
Maud’s hospital closed its doors to patients in 2008 after serving the tiny community for 148 years.
The B-listed building, which at one time had 135 beds for patients, was latterly sold at auction by the Scottish Government with a view of bringing it back into use.
It could now be converted into a mix of 11 one and two-bedroom flats, and eight three and four-bedroom houses.
Designs submitted by Mintlaw firm Baxter Design detail shared access roads between the homes, green spaces, and even a dedicated area of land for barbecues.
The property, which had formerly cared for the regions sick and elderly, is now owned by 1867 Townhouses Ltd, based out of Turriff.
The firm was formed in June last year.
Maud Hospital was built following an architectural competition to provide a hospital with enough room for 125 patients and 35 paupers.
After it closed a decade ago, planning permission was awarded to convert the site into shops and homes.
Planning permission was also approved for a cafe to be created within the grounds.
No work was ever completed on site, however, and the permission has now lapsed.
It has sat largely untouched since its closure, although in recent years it has become a target for vandals.
Last October, a group of youths were filmed breaking into the hospital and causing damage.
Local councillor Jim Ingram has branded the attacks against the site as “regrettable” for the village.
“It could well be in a very dangerous condition given the fact it hasn’t had heating or conditioning work. It hasn’t been used for years and it’s regrettable – but it always is whenever vandalism takes place,” he said.
“It’s not to be encouraged and it’s especially disappointing in a small place like Maud.”
Aberdeenshire Council aims to make a decision on the new scheme by April 30.
Members of the public have until April 5 to lodge comments on the proposal.
