Council chiefs could cash-in on plans that bring a supermarket, cafe, filling station, car wash and parking to a north-east park.
Morrisons has been named as the preferred bigger for the project, which would lead to the development of land at Banff’s Canal Park and Old Market Place.
Aberdeenshire Council is open to selling the site, which lies to the west of Deveron Bridge and currently houses a football pitch, pavilion and community centre, as well as three redundant tennis courts and a basketball court.
As a large portion of the site is designated ‘common good land’, the council must consult with the community before passing its findings on to the Banff and Buchan area committee.
A final decision will then be made on whether to sell the land, potentially bringing a new supermarket to the town.
Chance to comment on proposals
Banff councillor Michael Roy said: “This is something that has been discussed for some time and could lead to significant investment in the area.
“We want everybody to have the chance to participate and comment on the proposals.
“We know the Banff, Macduff and wider communities will want to share their thoughts on the project and I would encourage everybody to take part.”
Before any sale, the local authority must also secure a Common Good Order from the courts by outlining the expected benefits of the sale and how community interests would be safeguarded.
Money generated from any sale of the land would be protected for the benefit of Banff and Macduff.
Banff councillor Glen Reynolds is assuring townsfolk it’s not a “done deal” and stressing the important sharing their views once the eight-week consultation begins online.
“What happens in the future will not only be determined by the outcome of the consultation, but by the planning process and also the court, who will protect the common good interests of the twin towns,” he said.
“This is not a done deal in any shape or form.
“Morrisons have indicated a willingness to invest substantially in a Banff superstore and filling station.
“I hope the consultation will now hand over the reigns to those that count – all who will be impacted by this proposal – and in an open and transparent process that will demonstrate all of the possible outcomes.”
Full details of the consultation will follow.
