A north-east community is fighting plans to expand its village.
Residents of Kemnay are opposed to Deveron Homes’ proposals to build 49 new homes, adding to the existing Cairn View development.
They claim the scheme will put a huge strain on the village’s primary schools and health centre, as well as causing traffic problems in the Fyfe Park and Stuart Crescent areas.
There are also fears the development would have an impact on the nearby cairn and Place of Origin art project which offers scenic views of the area.
Residents are urging Aberdeenshire Council to dismiss the application as the site is not included in the existing – or emerging – local development plan.
Sheila Simpson, chairwoman of Kemnay community council, said last night: “The site was initially excluded from the LDP because it would impinge on the cairn, which is a major landmark for the village, and due to the lack of infrastructure to support another 49 homes.
“The community at large is quite concerned about school places in the primary school. The academy extension has eased the problem but the primary school is already nearly full and parents are struggling to get their children in. Adding 49 homes to that as well is not appropriate.”
Ishbel Campbell, who lives in Cairn View, raised fears about accessing the new development through the existing estate, which is already busy with both children and cars. She also claimed there had been a couple of recent “near-misses” at Fyfe Park.
She has concerns about the visual impact of the project, and said: “The Place of Origin has become a well known landmark and building these houses will spoil the view you see from the top. It’s well-visited and has a fabulous view of the surrounding village that would be completely taken away by these proposals.”
Last night, Alan Murray, managing director of Deveron Homes, insisted the importance of the viewpoint had been considered when drawing up the proposals.
He said: “Although the details of the design have yet to be agreed, Deveron Homes are committed to delivering low density one and one-and-a-half storey houses on the site to address the concerns of any adverse impact on the Point of Origin.
“Significant appraisals have been undertaken to inform the proposed layout.”
“Discussions are taking place with the local authority with regards to an appropriate financial contribution towards local services and facilities.”