Following extensive consultation with the council and local community, the application, originally submitted in May 2023, was resubmitted by Cala Homes in February this year.

The updated application, following review by the council’s roads department, proposes an alternative staggered junction design into the development rather than a new roundabout, which was part of the previous application.

A final decision is to be taken by the council’s Marr Area Committee on the 7th May.

Ross Maclennan, land director at Cala Homes (North), said: “We have been in extensive discussions with Aberdeenshire Council regarding the proposals and welcome the positive recommendation. And if approved next week, would provide a range of new family homes for Banchory, and Cala’s first development in the town since 2006.

“Following the council’s detailed technical feedback, the application was revised to include a new junction arrangement on Raemoir Road, replacing the existing road which is no longer suitable for the area or future planned growth.

“We look forward to hearing the final decision at the committee meeting on 7th May.”

If successful, Cala would implement its Community Pledge initiative in Banchory, which sees the housebuilder creating bespoke programmes of community activity for each of its developments.

Each development’s activity looks to address specific community needs including donations, volunteering, learning programmes, support initiatives and much more.

Ross added: “Our Community Pledge includes school outreach programmes such as Land to Life, which details how we bring a community to life right from the planning stages, and Stay Safe, Stay Away, which highlights the dangers of playing near construction sites.

“As we are often in touch with community councils and local groups during the planning process, we also look for opportunities to help specific charities and organisations that benefit our communities.”