Proposals for a tourism, leisure, business and residential development at Inchmarlo, Banchory, have been refused following concerns about potential breaches of planning policies.

The application, by Frank Burnett Ltd, sought approval in principal for the project, which was to include provision of a serviced site for a five star-hotel, new golf club facilities, a cook school, and 125 properties.

The scheme would also have featured new community facilities, a biomass plant, a new community hall and general improvements to existing infrastructure.

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Although acknowledging the potential economic development benefits of the scheme, several councillors voiced concern that the housing element of the project was contrary to existing and proposed guidance contained in the Aberdeenshire Local Plan.

Cllr Peter Argyle moved that the application be supported, on the grounds that councillors would still have opportunities to discuss the detail of the proposals and address any outstanding concerns.

Cllr Karen Clark moved an amendment that the application be refused in line with the recommendation of planners.

The amendment was carried by 40 votes to 20, with two abstentions, and the application was rejected.

(JG/KMcA)