The instruction follows Aberdeenshire Council granting planning permission to Banchory Estates to build three retail units and a drive-thru cafe on land behind the town’s Tesco store.

It is anticipated that the development will bring Lidl, Home Bargains, Starbucks and M&S Food to Banchory.

Hardies managing partner Martin McConnell said: “As lead consultant on this exciting project we will undertake a range of project management duties, including full Quantity Surveying, Principal Designer and Energy services.”

As part of the design team, Hardies will work alongside architect IDA, structural engineer Goodson and M&E engineer Horizon.

Work is anticipated to start on site this summer.