A row broke out yesterday over funding to rebuild a fire-hit bowling club in Peterhead.
The Victoria Bowling Club was devastated by a blaze in the summer of 2014, and members have since been operating from a temporary clubhouse.
A debate over the ownership of the site delayed any work to rebuild the club, after it emerged Aberdeenshire Council handed over responsibility of it 20 years ago.
Council officers negotiated with the club, and yesterday asked members of the education, learning and leisure committee to pledge £40,000 to the group.
But local councillor Alan Buchan argued the donation would not be enough to salvage the building, and tabled an amendment to send the proposals back to the area committee in the hope of getting more money allocated to the project.
He said the construction of a new pavilion in the town’s Victoria Park could cost between £300,000 and £400,000.
Mr Buchan added the council had responsibility for the site – a claim dismissed by council officials, who said they have no “legal interest” in the club or the land.
He said: “I don’t agree with this paper.
“As for the cost of replacing this – it could be £300,000 – £400,000. It was burned down by vandalism. This is our asset. I can see it being very, very tough for the community to raise something like £300,000 in years even.”
However head of lifelong learning and leisure at the council, John Harding, said: “We don’t have a legal interest in the property or the land.”
And committee chairwoman Alison Evison said: “This is a situation they (the club) are happy with and prepared to move forward with.
“This would make sure it is up and running in time for the bowling season.”
Central Buchan councillor, Lenny Pirie, backed the proposals, adding: “The bowling club is an important part of the community, it is very important for the health and well-being of the community.”
The amendment was outvoted nine to seven following a motion to agree with the funding from Councillor Martin Ford.
The money was handed to the group on the agreement the club come up with a viable business plan and provide sustainable maintenance of the facility.