A community project, part funded by Aberdeenshire Council, is to unveil displays regarding a new multi-purpose community centre in Mintlaw.

The Mintlaw and Buchan initiative (MACBI) will display a range of information at an event at Mintlaw Academy on 5 October.

The open day will show plans of the new development, analytic costs of the facilities and a look at what equipment will be on offer. There will also be an opportunity for locals to share their views on what they would like to be included.

Central Buchan is a rural area of roughly 1100 square miles, with no central town, but a number of small villages scattered throughout the area. The project aims to establish a new community centre to serve the needs of the remote communities.

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MACBI, which holds charitable status, was established by local residents in 2005. They aim to improve facilities and offer a place for people to meet, a centre for cultural events, a centre for health and sports activities and a centre to foster community spirit.

The building will be centrally located in Mintlaw, adjacent to Mintlaw Academy, Pitfour Primary School, Mintlaw Health Centre, the Library and the all-weather pitch. The plans that will be on display will detail the development and include floor plans which will illustrate a multi-purpose hall, multi-gym, soft play area, meeting rooms, changing rooms, lounge/viewing area and a café.

Aberdeenshire Councillor, Chair of MACBI Community Project and Deputy Provost, Norman Smith, said: "This is the biggest community project in the area for many years and is supported by Aberdeenshire Council and Buchan Community Development Partnership.

"The new centre will enhance the wellbeing of local people and will provide a much needed focal point for community activities and act as an integrator for people of all ages."

Chair of Aberdeenshire Council's Buchan Area Committee Stuart Pratt added: "Central Buchan is very rural region and this community facility is essential in providing a communal location for these areas. The centre will offer improved facilities that have not been available in the area since the 1990's."

(JP/CD)