Aberdeenshire Council has unveiled proposals to convert a former children’s home into a block of flats.
Scalloway Park Children’s Home in Peterhead closed about two years ago, and earlier this month it was suggested the boarded up building would be brought back into use as a hostel.
The move came after a letter was circulated within the town which alleged a deal would be made without the approval of local people.
At the time, Rob Simpson, the council’s housing manager, rubbished the allegations.
“There are no plans to convert the former children’s home into a house of multiple occupancy,” he said.
“We are in the early stages of considering a future use for the site, with the preferred option being the creation of six self-contained flats.”
And now the application for the flats has been lodged.
Designed by Aberdeen firm Halliday Fraser Munro on behalf of the authority, each property will be single-bed.
In a design statement submitted alongside the application, a spokesman for the firm said the building in its current state has “fallen into disrepair”.
Its appearance, however, is unlikely to change.
“An upgrade to the rainwater pipes will be required,” he added.
“All proposed external finishes include render and roofing tiles to match the existing property.”
Last night, a spokeswoman for Aberdeenshire Council said that the flats would be rented out if the scheme was approved.
Members of the public have until November 29 to speak in favour or against the plan.
Previously, locals have opposed the site coming back into use.
In 2012, when the council hoped to demolish the building and replace it with a new children’s home, opponents claimed the project would not be in the “best interests” of the area.
Councillors went on to block the project.
