Cala’s application was also seeking planning permission in principle from Aberdeenshire Council for two additional phases of development which would deliver an addition of 106 and 54 homes respectively.

But until the first phase is under way, full detailed plans for these will not yet be submitted. Cala’s plans arrived after developer Scotia Homes intended to develop the site in 2022 after receiving approval to build on the land. On 24 June, the proposal went before the Garioch area committee. 

Two road access points would be included along Hillbrae Way, as well as footpaths to connect the village and the new residential area. For Newmachar, Cala has proposed to build 16 different house types ranging from one-bedroom flats to five-bedroom family homes.

An area of the site was initially allocated for a new primary school. However, the education team of the local authority felt that any potential pupils that are moving to the new scheme could be accommodated at the area’s present facilities.

As such, it was concluded that a new primary school is unnecessary and housing would be the appropriate purpose for the land. Robert Grant, development manager at Cala, was present at the meeting in a bid to make a case for the plan for Newmachar. 

He said Cala was “basically just mirroring what Scotia already had approval for”.

Grant added: “Cala is committed to delivering a mix of two, three, four and five-bed family, private and affordable homes, much needed for the town and region. One-bed flats and two-bed bungalows make up the remainder to provide a range of houses.”

Councillor Judy Whyte asked if bus stops would be brought in. In response, Grant said residents would have to use the ones that are currently in Hillbrae Way.

However Grant also said that if any were required in the upcoming two phases, during the stage of site design, it would be taken into consideration. 

Councillor David Keating expressed concerns that the housing delivery would lead to more pressure on GPs, possibly causing them to leave their jobs. But Keating also said: “But on balance, everything else about this application I’m completely content with, and we do want the affordable housing.”

Councillor Jim Gifford expressed positivity about the plan. Gifford said: “This development has been a long time coming… It’s good to see it progressing and it’s a good use of the site,” he stated.

The committee decided to approve the application after the discussion.