Fochabers-based developer Bob Milton Properties submitted the proposal for land behind Seaview Road last year, taking architectural cues from the traditional gable-ended buildings found at the nearby harbour. The design received a positive reception from several locals, with Aberdeenshire Council receiving 15 letters of support.

Supporters highlighted the benefits of bringing more full-time residents into the village. Buckie resident Jordan Geddes said the homes could revitalise the community, noting that many existing properties are used as holiday homes, leaving the village “a ghost town in the winter months”.

Frequent visitor Stuart Bain also praised the design as “very attractive and thoughtful,” suggesting it would complement rather than detract from Sandend’s charm.

However, not everyone welcomed the plans. The council’s roads team objected due to concerns over the steep gradient of the proposed footpath, which they said could pose safety risks. Local resident Tina Wilson, who has lived in Sandend for a decade, warned that the village’s infrastructure is already under strain, citing issues with sewerage, water pressure, and flooding during heavy rain.

Fellow resident Stewart Ingram echoed these concerns, raising potential environmental and traffic impacts. He also suggested the additional homes could place further pressure on local services, such as GPs and the village school.

An online petition led by campaigner Mollie King branded the plans a “monstrosity” and argued the new development would overshadow the village’s character.

Despite these objections, Aberdeenshire Council planners supported the proposal, citing the need for more family housing to attract year-round residents. Banff councillor John Cox backed the application during a meeting of the Banff and Buchan area committee, noting that the site had long been earmarked for development, although past proposals had failed to progress.

The committee ultimately voted unanimously to approve the plans, paving the way for the construction of nine new homes in Sandend.