More retail opportunities could be created in Banff after councillors agreed to put Canal Park on the market.
Aberdeenshire Council has been approached by a supermarket chain and a discount retailer about the commercial prospects of the land and premises, which is currently used for leisure purposes.
And now the Banff and Buchan area committee have agreed the land and properites at Old Market Place and Deveronside should go on the open market.
Committee chairman Andy Kille said: “There is a clear demand for additional retail opportunities in Banff and interest has already been shown by some national organisations.
“We feel it’s important to look at opportunities for Old Market Place and Canal Park as part of our ongoing regeneration efforts for the town.
“However, these plans are at a very early stage so if there are other interested parties then I would encourage them to contact council officers to put forward their ideas.”
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The buildings are currently leased to local groups and involve common good land.
Before any sale will be agreed, these matters will be considered.
Committee vice-chairman and local councillor Michael Roy said: “I would like to reassure local sports groups that use Canal Park that we will work closely with them to ensure suitable alternatives are in place should the land eventually be sold.
“We are still in the early stages of this process and are keen to work with all interested groups for the benefit of Banff as a whole.”
Canal Park, commonly used for recreational activities by local residents, was bequeathed to the town by the Duke of Fife in 1906, the then owner of Duff House.
Deveronvale Community Football Club and the associated youth teams use the Canal Park pitches every weekend.
Chairman of the Banff Development Partnership Glen Reynolds said the retail interest highlights the “growing supply and demand in the area”.
“It is important that outcomes and economic growth sit alongside other aspects of regeneration such as the conversion of historic properties that have an impact on perception,” he said.
“Banff is open for business for residents and families who will contribute to the beauty and business potential of our natural and economic landscape.”