Plans for the development of Catto Park in Peterhead have been unveiled by the Aberdeenshire Council.

Last year, a Stage 1 assessment study was carried out by the Buchan Area Committee and Peterhead Football Club to look at new community and sport facilities in the town. The work also looked at including new day care facilities for adults with learning needs.

Recreational Consultants PMR were appointed to carry out a feasibility study and business case, and discussions were held with national sports funding bodies, user groups and community representatives.

The design for the new facilities includes improved drainage for all existing pitches on the site, a replacement all-weather football/rugby pitch, an upgraded athletic track, plus an all-weather hockey surface. Elsewhere, the local authority has said the existing football stand would be demolished and incorporated into a two-storey "street" design, which could house a café, changing facilities, an indoor sports hall, covered football facilities, integrated day care facilities, a gym and community meeting rooms.

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Currently, the project is estimated at around £17m.

Welcoming the developments, Councillor Isobel Davidson, Chair of Education, Learning and Leisure, said: "Aberdeenshire Council have been pleased to be involved in the concept exercise to date and are impressed by the proposals that have emerged.

"The details now need to be considered and the Council has several roles to play as landowner, planning authority, facility provider and partner.

"The financial climate facing Scottish Local Authorities presents considerable challenge for the future. Facility provision and the role that we can play is moving from direct provision to partnership work with a clear community focus to delivery and where appropriate management.

"The concept now requires full examination to explore how best to take it forward. This would require phasing and elements of reduction, but the Council will be keen to support the development in all the ways that we can, as a partner, within the financial constraints that we face."

Council Leader, Councillor Jim Gifford added: "The council is pleased to be a partner in this exciting and innovative community-led proposal."

(JP/MH)