Aberdeen gives green light to 550-home plan for Bridge of Don

Councillors in Aberdeen have principally approved plans for a 550 new homes in Bridge of Don.

Aberdeen gives green light to 550-home plan for Bridge of Don

The proposals by Cognito Oak LLP - a partnership between Henry Boot Developments and Wraith Real Estate – had been recommended for approval, subject to conditions.

Under the plans, a mix of flats and semi-detached, detached and bungalow properties will be developed on land at Cloverhill alongside sports pitches, community facilities and retail space for a convenience store, cafe and hairdresser.

Cloverhill will be built in three phases, with around 145 affordable homes being constructed first, followed by more housing and then the flats and sports pitch, which would be home to junior football club Bridge of Don Thistle.

Planning documents lodged with the council said low carbon technology is to be used in the residential development for the first time in Scotland.

Planning consultants Halliday Fraser Munro said that the development would “create a new sustainable community, sitting between the Bridge of Don and Aberdeen beach, providing a high quality, sustainable and healthy lifestyle for its residents, businesses and the wider community”.

The location was earmarked for business and industrial use in the local development plan (LDP) but has been rezoned for residential building in the council’s proposed LDP.

A report, which was put before councillors on Thursday, added: “This application represents a departure from the 2017 Aberdeen Local Development Plan, specifically in relation to its zoning for business/employment land.

“Nevertheless, the proposal is able to satisfy many of the other requirements of the plan in relation to the provision of an appropriate residential environment and mitigating the impacts of the development.

“It is evident that Aberdeen has an abundant supply of available employment land, such that the development of this site for an alternative site while maintaining a generous supply for future use.”

Councillors were recommended to approve the plans – subject to 29 conditions which must be met before the homes can be occupied.

These include taking a number of steps to make the previously non-residential area fit to live in, by upgrading streetlights, and installing a toucan crossing south of the Murcar roundabout on the A92 Aberdeen to Ellon road.

The developer would be expected to provide nearly £3 million worth of local investment and facilities if the application is approved.

At least £1.31m would be required to fund the expansion of Scotstown School and medical practice – while plans for a community meeting place and public sports facilities are valued at £1.67m.

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