A public meeting has been held to discuss the future development of site in Aberdeenshire. The site in question, is that of a former quarry, and it had previously been suggested that the land could be used as a site for Gypsy/Travellers.

Three options for the potential development of the site at Aikey Brae, near Old Deer, were put forward by the local authority, but those in attendance then suggested a further fourth option - that the site is not developed for this use at all.

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The suggestion gained almost unanimous support by residents, elected members and council officials, it is understood.

Of the three possible options given for developing Aikey Brae, they ranged from transit to stopover to permanent. All three options would see the creation of 14 pitches at the site, with security fencing, closed circuit television, and a management office.

Aberdeenshire Council's Director of Housing and Social Work, Ritchie Johnson, who opened the meeting said that no decisions had yet been made on the use of the site.

He said: "There were a number of strong views expressed during the meeting including, of course, that there should be no development at all at Aikey Brae.

"No decision has been made on the future of Aikey Brae, but it's important that we hold discussions with the local community regarding how the site might be used should proposals move forward."

(JP/CD)