An ambitious scheme to transform a gap site in the centre of a north-east town has started to take shape.
Peterhead Projects has tabled a planning application to turn a derelict site at the port’s Rose Street into a “pocket park” for the community.
The waste ground has lain empty since 2009 when a former cafe was demolished because its foundations had become unstable.
Now, to make use of the site until a developer comes up with plans to build homes or another shop , Peterhead Projects wants to transform it into a meeting space for locals.
In its design statement, submitted alongside the planning application, Ken Duncan, Peterhead Projects’ manager, said the park would be created for “interim” use, in the hope that the site could still be salvaged by a property developer in the future.
“Many people have harboured high hopes about improving this site as it falls within a conservation area, and the town centre is bereft of good quality open space,” he added.
“Although there are currently no plans to build on the site, the park must be designed on the premise that it may eventually have to be removed.
“We are mindful that, as this park lies within the conservation area, it will mean that all materials must be natural, with modern plastics avoided.”
Flower beds and benches would be installed at the site in an attempt to make it welcoming.
Mr Duncan said it was “too early” to confirm what types of flowers or herbs would be planted.
The bricks and timber from the original buildings are currently in storage and could be used in any future development at the site.