Plans to expand a north-east retail park have been put on hold for answers on the impact it will have on traffic.
EG Group want to expand the Buchan Gateway in Peterhead by building a 24-hour petrol station and drive-through coffee shop.
Council planners have recommended the scheme for approval, but yesterday members of the Buchan area committee felt unable to make a decision.
First, they want more information on traffic management, public transport links and pedestrian access.
They also heard from a local business concerned about the impact of the plans on their firm.
Peterhead South and Cruden councillor Stephen Smith was concerned about that pedestrians may have to cross the busy A90 Aberdeen to Peterhead road to get to the site.
Mr Smith said: “In terms of access to public transport, the study by the consultants for the applicant has stated there are bus stops immediately adjacent to the site.
“I have had it confirmed by the public transport unit there are what is called an informal bus stop at that site and it is used as a timing point.
“If somebody wants to access public transport they have either have some distance to walk to a bus or they can flag down a bus on the trunk road.
“In terms of access for pedestrians there is no safe means for crossing the A90.
“There is a traffic island, but there’s nothing like the retail park in Inverurie which has pedestrian controlled crossing point.”
Peterhead North and Rattray councillor Dianne Beagrie wanted to more information about the potential traffic impact at the Invernettie roundabout.
She said: “I am concerned about the roundabout.
“It is really quite congested so I would want an up to date report on the traffic.”
Alan Haigh and his brother Garry, who run Peterhead Motors, urged councillors to consider the potential impact of the petrol station and cafe on their own business.
He said: “There certainly isn’t a need for two 24-hour petrol stations in Peterhead.
“It will be to the detriment of people who work for us.
“I really would like you to consider local businesses that will suffer because of this.”
The Buchan area committee will discuss the application in August.
