Ambitious plans to build a £1.4million care home for troubled youngsters in the north-east are poised for approval.
Aberdeenshire Council revived its proposals for an eight-bedroom complex in Fraserburgh after the original scheme was thrown out by councillors
The scheme had run into opposition from residents living around the Scalloway Park site, who feared it would lead to a rise in antisocial behaviour problems.
However, when the plan was resurrected at the end of last year, it attracted no complaints from the public.
Members of the Banff and Buchan area committee agreed to grant planning permission, although there was still some concern that the development would be too close to other properties.
Next week, the local authority’s policy and resources committee will be asked to approve the final construction costs and award the contract to Banff builders AD Walker Ltd.
A working group was set up five years ago to look at replacing the Broch’s existing home, which is in the same street, after a review ruled it was not up to scratch.
The new single-storey building has eight bedrooms – including two for staff – a lounge, kitchen, dining area and offices. The exterior has been designed with timber cladding and a glazed entrance.
A council spokesman said: “It has been designed to become a ‘home from home’ and have the appearance and setting of a private residential house, with additional provision of security and safety.”
It will be built on land next to the existing building, which will be demolished at a later date.
The new home, which was originally scheduled to open this year, is expected to accommodate up to six youngsters aged 12-18.