The historic heart of a north-east harbour could be changed forever if the Scottish Government overturns a decision made by local councillors.
Plans were unveiled last year to create a new boat shed and self-catering accommodation in Portsoy’s 17th century refuge.
The proposal from Garmouth-based architect Stuart Matthew was backed by the local authority’s own planning service, but was criticised by councillors and residents who feared the development – on land at a former salt house – would damage the town’s popular annual boat festival.
The campaign to block the scheme was even joined by film producer Alan Wands, who used the conservation zone as the backdrop for his remake of Whisky Galore starring comedian Eddie Izzard.
Mr Wands, in a letter to councillors on the Banff and Buchan area committee, said approval of the development would damage hopes of further movie projects using the location.
“It’s hard to believe that a council that were so helpful to me in the making of Whisky Galore could be so short-sighed in allowing this proposal to go through,” he added.
“It will certainly make it much harder for other filmmakers to use the harbour as a location for period films or television productions.”
Councillors heeded his advice and the pleas of those who signed a 171-name petition, and rejected the application.
Mr Matthew has now lodged an appeal with the Scottish Government.
The proposal is identical to a 2010 application submitted by Mr Matthew which failed to win planning permission in 2012.
A decision on the appeal is due next month.