A Scottish conservation charity has argued a controversial travellers site would have little impact on a neighbouring Aberdeenshire beauty spot.
Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) found that the camp, next to St Cyrus National Nature Reserve, had disturbed areas of “botanical importance” during its construction.
Earth and spoil was dumped within the boundary of the reserve’s Site of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI), SNH said.
However, Marina Taylor, SNH operations officer for Tayside and Grampian, said the camp was unlikely to impact further on the reserve.
In her submission to planning officers, she said: “There are natural heritage interests of national importance directly adjacent to the development site, but these will not be affected by the proposal.”
Ms Taylor has requested that the applicants meet officers to clarify the boundaries of the site.
Habitats disturbed by the dumped material will also have to be restored.
Councillors are due to decide on two retrospective planning applications in connection with the site at a committee meeting on March 3.
One is in the name of traveller James McCallum, who is being pursued through the courts by the local authority over claims of continued unauthorised work on the land, and William Docherty, who is understood to live on the site.
Mr Docherty’s application is for a touring caravan park with space for 30 vehicles.
Around 20 caravans and additional vehicles are currently on the site, next to Eskview Farm. St. Cyrus Community Council has objected to the “negative impact” the development could have on an area of “outstanding natural beauty”.
It also raised concerns over light pollution, noise pollution and a potentially adverse affect on a local salmon fishing business, based nearby on the River Esk.
Allison Kerr, of the Old Fishing Station bed and breakfast at Kirkside, said the camp did not respect the character of the local area.
Meanwhile, education chiefs also have fears as to the impact the site could have on local schools.
Hazel Hall, business support officer for the council’s education department, said: “We would have serious concerns about the capacity for St Cyrus school to cope with additional and fluctuating pupil numbers across the age stages.”