The new development, which will be located at a former manse in the Glebe area, includes a mix of single and two-storey homes, as well as open spaces and public gardens.

It is the first stage of a masterplan to build a total of 50 homes and a range of community facilities north of the Glen Garioch distillery in the town.

After hearing the proposal at Aberdeenshire Council’s Formartine area committee this week, councillors voted in favour of the properties.

A number of concerns were raised including access to local services, maintenance of outdoor spaces and the potential risk of flooding.

However, following a review of all recommendations from consultees, the project was unanimously given the go-ahead.

Claymore Homes, engineers Fairhurst and landscape designers Root One Design make up the project team.