Planning Application - Raemoir Road, Banchory

Plans to bring 68 new homes to Upper Lochton, Banchory have been recommended for approval ahead of the next Aberdeenshire Council planning committee meeting on 7 May.

Plans for the development were resubmitted in February this year by Cala Homes, following extensive consultation with the Council and local community.

The proposed site falls within the allocated development area and would comprise 51 homes plus 17 affordable properties.

The application was first submitted in May 2023 and had included plans for a new roundabout. The access road has subsequently been amended to a junction upon recommendation from Aberdeenshire Council.

Ross Maclennan, Land Director at Cala Homes (North), said: “We have been in extensive discussions with Aberdeenshire Council regarding access requirements for the site.

“Following their valued feedback, our application was revised to ensure the proposed access meets the Council’s requirements. The revised application includes a new safe junction arrangement on Raemoir Road, replacing the existing road which is no longer suitable for the area.

“Our plans would bring much needed homes to the area and see Cala deliver a development in Banchory for the first time since 2006.

“We look forward to hearing the final decision at the committee meeting on 7 May.”

If successful, Cala would implement its Community Pledge initiative in Banchory, which sees the housebuilder creating bespoke programmes of community activity for each of its developments.

Each development’s activity looks to address specific community needs including donations, volunteering, learning programmes, support initiatives and much more.

Ross added: “Our Community Pledge includes school outreach programmes such as Land to Life, which details how we bring a community to life right from the planning stages, and Stay Safe, Stay Away, which highlights the dangers of playing near construction sites.

“As we are often in touch with community councils and local groups during the planning process, we also look for opportunities to help specific charities and organisations that benefit our communities.”