Outline plans approved for hundreds of new homes in Aberdeen

Plans for a significant population increase in Bucksburn have advanced with Aberdeen City Council’s approval of the initial phase of the Greenferns Landward development.
The comprehensive plan for Greenferns Landward envisions a residential-led development encompassing around 1,570 homes, a new primary school, local neighbourhood retail and commercial spaces, leisure and community facilities, and a Gypsy/Traveller site. The development aims to cater to a diverse demographic, including first-time buyers, families, and retirees, offering a mix of flats, terraced houses, semi-detached, and detached properties.
The first phase proposes approximately 435 homes on the eastern portion of the site.
The site will feature amenities such as cyclist and pedestrian pathways connecting to surrounding areas, a play area named Landward Park equipped with recreational facilities and picnic spots, and public art installations like granite monoliths and totem poles at the entrance.
The project has faced delays. In February 2023, councillors voted to postpone the construction due to escalating costs, proposing a deferment until 2032 to prioritise other developments at Craighill and Kincorth. The decision was influenced by external factors such as Brexit, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the cost-of-living crisis impacting construction expenses.
Concerns have been raised by residents regarding the capacity of local schools and medical facilities to accommodate the influx of new residents, potential flooding risks, and the loss of open spaces. Councillors have acknowledged that existing schools like Brimmond Primary and Bucksburn Academy are already over capacity, emphasising the need for additional educational infrastructure.
Local representatives have also highlighted the necessity for infrastructure development to support the new housing, stressing that such infrastructure should be established concurrently with the housing to prevent future issues.
The unanimous approval of the initial application by the planning committee marks a pivotal step forward. A more detailed planning proposal is anticipated to be presented to councillors in the future, outlining specific aspects of the development and addressing the concerns raised by the community.