Plans to refurbish Westhill Shopping Centre have been approved, despite concerns that the revamp could leave shoppers exposed to the elements.
Orchard Street Investment Management applied for permission to transform the site on the town’s Old Skene Road, proposing to create a new square near to Greggs and Marks and Spencer along with a series of other upgrades.
As a result, some of the existing canopy in the western part of the shopping centre will be removed – which sparked some concerns.
Ian Johnson, who lives in Westhill, wrote in his objection: “The removal of the canopies not only exposes anyone crossing the forecourt to rainfall but also increases the area likely to be dangerous underfoot when there is any snow and ice.
“The application shows no awareness that areas of the forecourt covered by canopies are currently regularly used by various community groups for fundraising activities that benefit the community.
“There is no alternative sheltered position in the centre of Westhill that would enjoy a comparable footfall.
“Removing the canopies will prevent these activities taking place.”
Meanwhile Jonathan Brooks highlighted that the retail park is something of a gull hotspot, and raised fears that additional flat roof space would make the situation worse.
Aberdeenshire Council granted planning permission yesterday, stating that the proposal is “considered an improvement to the existing Westhill Shopping Centre”.