Developers have appealed to the Scottish Government over Aberdeenshire Council’s decision to refuse plans for a new road.
Kirkwood Homes had applied for permission to create a link road on land adjacent to the East Lodge at the Ury Estate.
Once complete, the 1,600-acre estate will be home to the multi-million-pound Jack Nicklaus signature golf course, as well as to a swathe of new homes and flats.
Land director for Kirkwood Homes, Allan Rae, had called the decision “extremely disappointing” and now, appeal documents have been officially submitted to the Scottish Government.
An appeal statement, prepared by Emac planning on behalf of Kirkwood Homes, states: “This proposal is of course important to the wider ongoing delivery of development at Ury Estate, which is a key part of the strategic housing allocations within the A90 South Growth Corridor and the settlement for Stonehaven.
“The ethos for the continued use of East Lodge as an access is one of sustainable travel, with benefits to all road users of avoiding a one mile detour via North Lodge each time they enter/exit Ury Estate at the eastern side.”
The firm adds that retaining the access will cut down on fuel costs, fuel emissions and journey time, but also boost sustainable travel by increasing the likelihood of public transport serving the estate due to “a more direct and logical means of access”.
The Scottish Government will publish a decision in the coming weeks.
Details of the appeal case are available on by visiting www.dpea.scotland.gov.uk.