The Formartine Area Committee met on Tuesday 28 April 2026, with the meeting being held virtually via Microsoft Teams. Key decisions included the approval of an asset transfer for the Ythan Centre in Ellon and the granting of planning permission for an extension to the car parking area at Trump International Golf Course.

Extension to Existing Car Parking Area and Creation of Footpath at Trump International Golf Course

The committee granted full planning permission for the extension of an existing car parking area and the creation of a footpath at Trump International Golf Course in Balmedie. The application, which included a part retrospective element, sought to add 179 parking spaces, including six disabled bays, and a new footpath connecting Coastguard Cottages to the golf course and clubhouse.

Concerns were raised by local residents regarding light pollution, increased traffic noise, and potential fire risks associated with the storage of golf cart batteries. Objectors also highlighted issues with ground stability, drainage, and the visual impact of the proposed development.

However, the council's Environment and Infrastructure Services, including Roads Development and Flood Risk and Coastal Protection, raised no objections. Natural Heritage services advised that biodiversity enhancement measures would be required, which were subsequently included as a condition. The committee noted that the application had been amended to remove a proposed cart storage building.

The decision to grant permission was made subject to several conditions, including the submission of a Biodiversity Enhancement Plan, ensuring the approved surface water drainage system is implemented, and adherence to Species Protection Plans for badgers, bats, and birds.

Asset Transfer of the Ythan Centre, Ellon

The committee agreed to the full asset transfer of the Ythan Centre on Station Road in Ellon to the Catalyst Community Regeneration Company (CCRC) for £1. The CCRC plans to use the building as a community hub and a permanent home for the Catalyst Vineyard Church congregation.

The Ythan Centre has been unoccupied since the Ellon Baptist Church, which previously held a lease, relocated. The CCRC's proposal was supported by 37 out of 40 public representations, with the majority highlighting the positive impact the church's outreach activities and community programmes have on the area.

The transfer is intended to prevent the building from falling into disrepair and to increase footfall in the town centre. The CCRC has committed to investing in the building, including installing air source heating and solar panels, and will offer affordable venue space to other local groups. A clawback clause will be included in the transfer agreement to protect public value.

Terrific Academy Senior Girls Football Team Recognition

The committee took a moment to recognise the outstanding achievements of the Terrific Academy Senior Girls Football Team, who had a historic season, winning the Aberdeenshire Schools League Cup Final and the Aberdeenshire Schools League title. They also secured the Champions of Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire and Highland Schools competition. The committee commended Alan Shearer, Principal Teacher in Faculty for Health and Wellbeing, and Leslie Chapman, Pupil Wellbeing Worker, for their leadership.

Public Sector Equality Duty and Exempt Information

The committee agreed to have due regard to the Public Sector Equality Duty under Section 149 of the Equality Act 2010, which requires consideration of the need to eliminate discrimination, advance equality of opportunity, and foster good relations between those with protected characteristics and those without.

The committee also agreed to exclude the public and media from the meeting for Item 7, the Supplementary Annual Procurement Plan for Education and Children's Services Directorate, due to the likely disclosure of exempt information.

Minute of Meeting of 24 March 2026

The minutes of the previous meeting held on 24 March 2026 were approved as a correct record.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service - Formartine Area Committee Performance Report

The committee received an update on the performance of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in Formartine. Councillors raised concerns about a disused barn in Oldmeldrum that had been subject to several fires and the risk posed by lithium batteries. The Station Commander undertook to raise the issue of home alarm system lifespans within his service. The committee noted the report and requested that the issue of the private barn in Oldmeldrum be discussed further at a Ward 8 Meeting.

Slains School Update

An update was provided on the options appraisal for the future of Slains School, including the intention to commence statutory consultation on its permanent closure. Councillors acknowledged the sadness within the community following the school's closure due to roof collapse and noted that the children had settled well into their new schools. The committee noted the outcome of the options appraisal and commented that the strongest option was for the permanent closure of the school.

Draft Aberdeenshire Development Plan Scheme 2026

The committee considered the draft Aberdeenshire Development Plan Scheme 2026, which outlines the timetable for the production of the Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan 2029. Members sought clarity on the age group classified as young people and noted a request from a local Community Council for a policy review on how new developments should be serviced. The committee noted the report and commented that engagement with NFUS and Scottish Landowners would be beneficial.

Formartine Coastal Communities Funds 2026-2027

The committee was updated on the progress and availability of the Crown Estate Scotland Fund for Aberdeenshire Council in Formartine. They noted the funding allocation of £118,961.03 for 2026/27 and agreed to continue delegating the approval of Coastal Communities Fund awards to the Formartine Area Manager. The committee also requested that the application form be updated to seek evidence from applicants on how their projects would contribute to the Place strategy.

Statement of Outstanding Business

The committee noted a report updating on matters previously discussed but remaining unresolved.

Aberdeenshire Charities Trust (ACT2) Application

The committee agreed to award £382.50 of ACT2 funding to an applicant for the advancement of the arts, heritage, culture, or science.

Supplementary Annual Procurement Plan for Education and Children's Services Directorate

This item was considered in private session.