Work on a housing development at a former factory site in a north-east town could begin next month, according to developers.
Consent is already in place for almost 40 homes at the old Versatile Steel Works on Inverurie’s North Street, but house builder Barratt is hoping to secure backing for some “minor” revisions.
An application for changes to the scheme has been lodged with Aberdeenshire Council.
The firm says the aim is to provide more open space and better pedestrian access to the site, which would accommodate 32 one and two-bedroom flats and seven three-bedroom houses.
Douglas McLeod, regional director for Barratt Scotland, said: “Our latest planning application is a minor adjustment to the detailed planning consent.
“It’s elevational design and treatment is more in keeping with nearby properties and the local neighbourhood and it will also create more open public space and an improved pedestrian link to North Street.
“Work is due to commence in August this year, with the first completed homes expected next summer.”
An application to build 44 flats on the site was refused in 2010 because councillors felt the proposed homes did not fit in with nearby buildings.
A Scottish Government reporter agreed with the decision, made by members of the Garioch area committee, when the developer was appealed.
Agents Knight Frank lodged plans for 32 flats and seven houses a year later on behalf of landowner Raymond Taylor whose late father, John, founded Versatile Steel Works in 1968.
The blacksmith, poet and entertainer had previously taken over the old smithy in the town’s High Street.
The company went into members’ voluntary liquidation in 2008, which would have been its 40th year in operation.
Barratt expect to take ownership of the land at the end of the month.