Planners have earmarked proposals for a new eco-friendly farm shop and visitor centre near Fraserburgh for approval.
Colaren Farms, the company behind the project, want to create the development on land west of Little Burnthill.
A supporting statement submitted alongside the plans said the centre could provide a jobs boost to the area.
It said: “The vision for the development is to create a farmers’ market shop, café and visitor centre that will be accessible for people living in Fraserburgh, as well as people from nearby coastal villages, and also for tourists and passers-by who are visiting the area.
“The proposed development will deliver net economic benefits as it will create both full and part-time employment in the initial construction stage and then in the running of the business upon completion.”
The proposals have secured the backing of north-east tourism marketing agency Visit Aberdeenshire, who said it would “strengthen” the area’s tourism offering.
But in a letter objecting to the new venture, John Sim from Fraserburgh said he was concerned about its impact on the port.
He said: “I am delighted that the applicant is willing to invest in the area and create new jobs.
“However I have concerns about the plans submitted here. I don’t think the area needs yet another coffee shop or restaurant.
“There are enough existing businesses struggling to survive without adding another.
“This proposal would detract more customers from the town and village centres leading to further decline.
“It certainly doesn’t sound like a tourist destination.”
A report by Aberdeenshire Council’s infrastructure chief Stephen Archer said the project should be approved but subject to conditions including providing an energy statement and details about the car parking area.
Mr Archer said: “It is determined that this proposal would have the potential to provide net social and economic benefits, public amenities, employment opportunities and a tourist attraction in the Aberdeenshire regeneration priority area, without significantly undermining the vitality and viability of Fraserburgh’s town centre.”
Councillors on the Banff and Buchan area committee will make a final decision on the proposals when they meet in Fraserburgh on Tuesday.
The building would make use of an existing biomass heating boiler in order to reduce CO2 emissions.