The Marr Area Committee met on Tuesday 14 April 2026, where councillors granted full planning permission for retrospective works at 2 Allachlade Court, Aboyne, and planning permission in principle for a new dwelling at The Sheiling, Finzean. The committee also discussed the draft Aberdeenshire Development Plan Scheme 2026, outlining the timetable for the next Local Development Plan.

Retrospective Planning Permission for Retaining Wall and Decking at 2 Allachlade Court, Aboyne

The committee granted full planning permission for the retrospective installation of a retaining wall and decking at 2 Allachlade Court, Aboyne. The applicant, Ms Brenda Fyvie, had undertaken the works due to garden instability and subsidence. While an objection was raised by a neighbour, Mr John Abel of 3 Allachlade Court, citing issues with the description of works, compromised visibility, inappropriate material finishes, and overlooking, the council's planning officers recommended approval.

Officers noted that the retaining wall, with a Fyfestone finish to the south and east, and timber decking, were not considered inappropriate for the site's context. While the west elevation of the wall remained unfinished, it was acknowledged that civil issues with the neighbour prevented access for completion. The council also concluded that overlooking from the decking would not adversely impact neighbouring amenity due to existing screening and changes in ground levels. Roads Development confirmed that while cross-corner visibility was reduced, it was a private access with low traffic volumes, posing no significant road safety concern. Drainage was also deemed acceptable, with no concerns raised by the Flood Risk and Coast Protection team.

Councillor Anouk Kloppert, who had referred the application for discussion, expressed satisfaction with the officer's recommendation, stating that the overlooking and material finish issues had been resolved. The committee agreed to grant planning permission.

Planning Permission in Principle for New Dwelling at The Sheiling, Finzean, Banchory

The committee granted planning permission in principle for the erection of a dwellinghouse and subdivision of a feu at The Sheiling, Finzean, Banchory. The application, submitted by Mr Gordon Innes, sought to establish the principle of developing a dwelling on a plot within the garden ground of his existing property.

Objections were raised by neighbours, including Mr Andrew Taylor, Mr Malcolm Littlejohn, and Mr Brian Goodall, who expressed concerns about loss of privacy and amenity, the impact of additional drainage on the Water of Feugh, unsuitable access, inappropriate housing density, and the building's character. Mr Littlejohn specifically noted that a 1.5-storey house would not be in keeping with the two bungalows on either side and would cause a significant loss of light and overshadowing. Mr Goodall also highlighted that the proposed soakaway for the septic tank was not suitable and that the burn it would run into already dried up in summer.

Planning officers recommended approval, stating that the site was within the defined settlement boundary of Finzean, where development opportunities exist. They acknowledged that while the application was for planning permission in principle, and detailed design would be assessed at a later stage, careful consideration would be given to the scale, window positions, and boundary treatments to ensure no detrimental impact on neighbouring amenity. Roads Development had no objection, subject to conditions regarding parking and turning areas. Scottish Water confirmed no objection, but noted the absence of public wastewater infrastructure, necessitating private arrangements. Finzean Community Council remained neutral at this stage, reserving the right to comment further on detailed plans.

Councillor Ann Ross had referred the application to the committee due to concerns regarding Policy P3 of the Local Development Plan and Policy 17. The committee agreed to grant planning permission in principle, subject to numerous conditions relating to detailed design, landscaping, drainage, and energy efficiency.

Draft Aberdeenshire Development Plan Scheme 2026

The committee discussed the draft Aberdeenshire Development Plan Scheme 2026, which sets out the timetable for the preparation of the next Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan, programmed for adoption in 2029. Lisa, a planning officer, presented the report, highlighting the extensive engagement undertaken, including public events, community council forums, and drop-in sessions.

Councillor Brian Brown sought clarification on anticipated engagement levels at future stages, particularly when a more solid draft would be available. Lisa confirmed that a higher level of engagement was expected during the public consultation on the proposed plan in winter 2027. Councillor Brown also enquired about the assessment of registered Local Place Plans and their incorporation into the Local Development Plan. Lisa explained that registered Local Place Plans would be assessed as part of the Call for Ideas submissions.

Councillor Jeff Goodall asked for a breakdown of engagement by community councils, businesses, and individuals, and whether there would be any weighting to the information received. Lisa clarified that all responses were treated equally, with no weighting system applied. Councillor Goodall also raised concerns about the consultation process with community councils within the Cairngorms National Park, given the differing planning policies. Alanna Fordyce, a team leader, explained that all community councils were circulated with information, but some chose not to engage due to confusion with the Cairngorms National Park's own Local Development Plan.

The committee was asked to provide comments on the draft Development Plan Scheme for reporting to the Infrastructure Services Committee. No specific comments were raised by the committee members beyond the questions already asked.