Martin Dalziel, formerly of New Ingliston Ltd and Highland Properties Group Ltd, has over thirty years’ experience in property development and has overseen projects of a similar scale to the £800 million Countesswells development in recent years.

The new community is being taken forward by Countesswells Development Limited (CDL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Stewart Milne Group. A total of 300 homes have already been delivered by Stewart Milne Homes, Barratt, Kirkwood and CHAP on-site with many more under construction.

Mr Dalziel’s previous projects include the Gyle Square grade A office scheme in Edinburgh which was awarded the British Council of Offices regional prize and the David Alsop Award for sustainability. He was managing director of Robertson Property Ltd, part of Robertson Group before joining Highland Properties Group.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr Dalziel said: “Countesswells is a unique project which has gained recognition across the country for its innovative funding model and its approach to planning and place-making. I’m excited and honoured to have the opportunity to build on the significant progress to date.

“I am passionate about place-making and admire the fresh, innovative approach taken by CDL, which is based on traditional values and is creating a real sense of place with an authentic community spirit. I am looking forward to working with key stakeholders in the public sector to make sure that Countesswells is a truly special place to live and a major asset for Aberdeen.”

Funded by a £86m HM Treasury guarantee, CDL Limited has invested up-front in bringing the necessary services to the site, including connectivity which delivers the UK’s fastest broadband speeds, and extensive landscaping which has seen the planting of over 600 trees, the introduction of new species which has, in turn, attracted new wildlife, along with an award-winning playpark, new Cults Burn feature and a community orchard.

Stuart Macgregor, chief executive of Stewart Milne Group, said: “We are thrilled to have someone with Martin’s experience join our growing team at CDL. He has an impressive track record in delivering extremely positive results at every stage of the property development process.

“His collaborative approach to working with private and public sector stakeholders has been a key factor in unlocking the potential of the projects in which he has been involved. His focus on placemaking and delivering great places in which to live, work and spend leisure time which is the lifestyle vision behind Countesswells.”