A tiny north-east village could be expanded if plans for 21 homes are approved today.
Architecture firm Archial Norr wants to build the homes in Hatton, near Peterhead, but face opposition from members of the public who fear the added the traffic would be unacceptable and that local amenities would be pushed to breaking point.
But the Aberdeen firm believe the scheme, at land at the Sheiling, represents a good investment in the fabric of the village.
In a design statement, Archial Norr said: “The design of the proposed dwelling houses has been modified to reflect the character of the traditional vernacular buildings within the village and the resultant development now represents a worthwhile addition to Hatton.”
Councillors from Hatton and the wider Buchan area will now decide if the project can progress.
Aberdeenshire Council planners have urged the Buchan area committee to approve the scheme.
Stephen Archer, the authority’s director of infrastructure services, said the 21 homes were considered “acceptable” by planners.
“It is considered that the proposal will contribute to the area,” he added.
“It is considered that the proposal complies with the relevant policies contained within the Aberdeenshire local development plan 2012, in that the designs of the proposed dwellings are acceptable.
“It is therefore recommended that planning permission be granted.”
In a letter of objection, local man Chris Crisp raised concerns that surface water from the field where the houses will be built could lead to flooding.
“With any future planning getting the green light, this could cause problems,” he said.
The last major flood in the village happened in 2012 when storms effectively cut the community in two.
Residents in the north-east corner faced lengthy detours – in some cases as much as three miles – to get home after a bridge at the centre of Hatton collapsed.