Councillors are today expected to approve plans for a “glamping” site at the foot of Scolty Hill near Banchory.
Aberdeenshire Council planners have recommended proposals for three camping pods be approved, despite objections from members of the public.
The pods and associated infrastructure would take shape at Scolty House, located south of Banchory and to the west of the B974 Banchory to Strachan road.
Glamping has grown in popularity across Scotland in recent years, offering visitors the ability to spend time in the great outdoors in more luxurious confines than offered through traditional camping.
The application document, submitted by Aurora Planning on behalf of Philip Robertson, says the pods will provide “simple but comfortable accommodation for visitors to the area, allowing them to enjoy the natural environment with ease”.
It also states they will be “well-located to access nearby facilities and attractions in Banchory and the Royal Deeside Area”.
They have attracted 25 objections with opponents citing concerns ranging from the potential for flooding to the pods not fitting in with other structures in the area.
Some also argue the existing access road is unsuitable for additional traffic.
But councillors meeting at tomorrow’s Marr Area Committee have been urged to approve the plans by council officers.
A report by Stephen Archer, director of Infrastructure Services at Aberdeenshire Council conclude: “The proposal is considered appropriate in terms of layout, siting and design, providing small-scale tourist accommodation for visitors to the area without causing a detrimental impact on the landscape, local character or amenity of the surrounding area.”