Plans to build an explosives storage facility on the western outskirts of Aberdeen were approved by councillors yesterday.
Consent for the application on disused farmland at Hillhead of Clinterty, Kirkton of Skene will be conditional on the backing of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), however.
Members of the planning development management committee expressed concerns about the potential for an accident at the site near Tyrebagger Forest.
Dyce, Bucksburn and Danestone ward member Graham Lawrence said he “did not feel comfortable” signing off on the plans without having more information on the volume of equipment to be stored and what damage could be caused in the event of an explosion.
He said: “How bad would the effect of an accident be? How far would the blast radius be? What damage might there be to the local area? I don’t think we can make a decision on this without answers to these questions.”
The development would comprise of six buildings, along with an access road and lighting tower.
A report to the committee states that the facility would primarily be used to store explosives for use in the oil and gas industry.
A maximum of 3,500kg of material would be permitted on the site, which would require to meet licensing requirements laid down by the HSE.
The application was referred to the committee because of an objection from Dyce and Stoneywood Community Council, which has argued there would be an “unacceptable” effect on nearby Elrick Hill Country Park.
Councillors agreed unanimously to approve the plans, subject to conditions.