A decision to sell the former Mearns Academy buildings has been delayed until 2016.

The community of Laurencekirk has been given more time to develop a business case for community use of the former Mearns Academy site and playing fields.

The decision was made to provide time for the local development trust to deliver a robust business case and undertake full consultation with the local community.

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Chair of Policy and Resources Committee Cllr Martin Kitts-Hayes said: "We are listening to local views and are very aware that there is a lot of interest and enthusiasm for identifying the best use of the site for the benefit of the community.

"We are keen to give the community an appropriate amount of time to turn their ideas into something that can be delivered and sustained in the long-term.

"It should be based on local need, and identify potential funding streams as part of that process. We're open to their ideas and hope that this delay in marketing the site will give them the time they need to turn their ideas into a robust business case."

(CD)