Southesk Farms lodged an application for the new crematorium on the Elsick Estate near Newtonhill last October.

They wanted to build a new hall and crematorium next to the walled garden of the historic Elsick House.

A swimming pool building currently on the site will be demolished.

The application was considered by councillors last month but they agreed to visit the site first due to concerns over parking.

Council planners had recommended the plan be approved, The Press & Journal has reported.

Jonathan Dymock from Southesk Farms said there is “significant” demand for a crematorium to cover Aberdeenshire and North Angus.

He told members that Baldarroch Crematorium out at Crathes is fully booked and supports the new site as it would save grieving families from having to wait.

Peterhead funeral director Robert Mackie has also given his support to plans.