Developers behind ambitious proposals to build hundreds of new homes in an Aberdeen suburb say their vision will inject tens of millions into the local economy- if it is backed by councillors.
Cognito Oak LLP want to build 500 homes, shops, community facilities and a football pitch as a new home ground for up-and-coming juniors Bridge of Don Thistle on land north of the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre.
On Monday, councillors will visit the site ahead of a special meeting to discuss the proposal and a full and final decision at a later date.
Cognito Oak – a partnership between Henry Boot Developments and Wraith Real Estate – believe the massive new estate would cost around £100 million to construct.
And they hope it will create 40 new jobs in addition to supporting 290 existing jobs.
When up and running, it is predicted the development would put an extra £12.8 million annually into the city’s economy – with £3.9 million in developer obligations and an additional £1.1 million in council tax.
The plans have proved divisive in the local area, with the influential Bridge of Don community council formally objecting.
Fears have been raised about the impact the new homes would have on traffic, school places and public transport and the group has argued the land should be kept for business use only.
However there have also been dozens of comments of support submitted to the council from residents.
A Cognito Oak spokeswoman said the proposal would create a “coastal village” in the suburb, boasting a square with shops, and pledged half of the 22.5-hectare site would be open fields and parkland.
Around 165 of the 550 homes are to be affordable, helping to tackle the city’s housing shortfall.
In Bridge of Don alone, the waiting list for council houses is currently 2,500 names long.
Nigel Munro of HBD said: “Nestled on the coast between Bridge of Don and Aberdeen beach, and close to areas of employment, the community will be designed to promote a healthy and sustainable lifestyle with community at its heart.
“The feedback from the consultation shaped our final plans.
“After listening to the local community, we scrapped the proposal for a recycling centre and added in community sports facilities.
“The shortage of bungalows, to cater for older residents looking to downsize to smaller facilities without moving into a flat or managed facility, was also highlighted.
“We have therefore committed to ensuring around 5% of our new homes will be all on one level.
“This will result in more family-sized properties becoming available to meet that market demand.”
Bridge of Don community council did not respond to a request for comment.