A north-east port is on track to host one of Scotland’s premier athletics centres after councillors backed plans for a £1.2million sports complex.
A local trust can now bid for the rest of the funding it needs to build a six-lane running track and floodlit all-weather pitch in Fraserburgh.
Its ambitious plans also feature space for field events and an all-abilities cycling track.
And the project could be completed by summer 2017.
The Fraserburgh South Links Sports Development Trust’s scheme involves converting existing grass pitches into a modern athletics facility.
Last night, trust convener Graeme Clark said he was delighted members of the local authority’s Banff and Buchan area committee had unanimously backed the plans.
Aberdeenshire Council has already pledged £600,000 of funding.
Mr Clark said: “It was a very positive discussion and a unanimous vote.
“We’re very pleased with the outcome. It’s all positive.
“A couple of funders required planning approval before they would consider our application.
“Part of the timeframe is that the Scottish Government’s regeneration fund requires for us to have started work by April.”
Committee members yesterday described the project as “marvellous” and said it could potentially become one of Scotland’s top athletics sites.
Local councillor Charles Buchan said: “I would very much like to commend the SLSDT.
“The impetus behind this has been generated by the community and this facility will add to Fraserburgh’s existing reputation.
“It’s absolutely super, it’s cutting edge and it will be one of the best in Scotland.”
Fellow SNP member Brian Topping said: “I think everyone here agrees this is wonderful and fantastic news for Fraserburgh sport.”
Independent councillor Ian Tait said: “It’s marvellous not just from a sporting point of view but for regeneration and bringing people into the town.”
And fellow Independent member Michael Watt added: “This is the icing on the cake for development in Fraserburgh.”
If the SLSDT wins funding from SportScotland, the project will go out to tender and work could begin as early as the end of this year.
Albert Ross, who founded the Fraserburgh Fitness Centre based at nearby James Ramsay Park, said locating all of the town’s sports facilities together in the South Kessock area would put the town “on the map”.
“I think it’s good for the community in general that there is that level of investment,” he said.
“Especially if it’s located in the South Kessock area. Now they have all the sports facilities together, which for us is great.”
Fraserburgh Fitness Centre is currently working to build a £500,000 squash centre in the area.
Mary Melville, the vice-chairwoman of the local community council, also welcomed the decision taken by councillors at their meeting in Fraserburgh.
She said: “There are so many things they talk about for Fraserburgh that never materialise.
“But this looks like it’s definitely going to happen.
“It’s going to encourage people of a all ages – men and women, girls and boys – to do some enjoyable exercise.”