The Formartine Area Committee met on Tuesday 30 June 2026, discussing a range of issues including the proposed merger of Fintry and King Edward Schools, the Landscape Services Works Programme for 2026/27, and a planning application for a café with a drive-thru in Ellon. The committee reviewed proposed funding allocations for Formartine Area Community Councils for the upcoming financial year.

Merger of Fintry School and King Edward School

The committee considered the outcome of a statutory consultation regarding the proposed merger of Fintry School and King Edward School. The consultation report, which included feedback from parents, pupils, staff, and the wider community, indicated general support for the merger itself, but divided opinions on which school building should be retained. Officers presented a recommendation that King Edward School be retained as the merged site, citing its capacity for future roll growth, central location within the combined catchment, and existing transport links. The committee was asked to provide comments to the Education and Children's Services Committee on this recommendation.

Formartine Area Community Council Funding 2026-2027

The committee reviewed the proposed allocations for Formartine Community Council Grants for the 2026-27 financial year, totalling £11,041. This funding is distributed based on a fixed grant per community council and a per capita amount, with a portion also allocated for a networking event for community council members. The report also provided an update on ongoing support for community councils across Aberdeenshire, including training resources and a review of the Scheme for the Establishment of Community Councils.

Landscape Services Works Programme 2026/27

The committee was presented with the proposed works and activities for Landscape Services and Bereavement Services within Formartine for the 2026/27 financial year, with a total revenue budget of £2,166,800 and a capital budget of £100,000 for cemeteries. The programme includes routine maintenance, planned works, and initiatives focused on biodiversity and sustainability, such as the expansion of No Mow Meadows to support pollinators. The report highlighted the importance of parks and open spaces for residents' physical and mental wellbeing and outlined plans for continued partnership working with local community groups.

B9005 Craigs Road, Ellon – Reduction of Waiting Restrictions

The committee was asked to approve the commencement of statutory procedures to reduce existing 'At any time' waiting restrictions on Craigs Road, Ellon. This reduction is necessary to facilitate the introduction of a new zebra pedestrian crossing. The existing restrictions will be replaced by zig-zag road markings, which define the controlled area of the crossing. The estimated cost for the new zebra crossing, funded by the Capital Active Travel Tier 1 allocation, is approximately £49,180.

APP/2025/1991 - Site At North Castle Road (A920) At Its Junction With Balmacassie Brae Ellon Aberdeenshire

Full planning permission was sought for the erection of a café (Class 3) with a drive-thru takeaway (Sui Generis) and associated works at a site on North Castle Road, Ellon. The application received 112 representations, with 108 in support and 4 objections. Key issues raised included traffic impact, litter, the suitability of the location next to a waste transfer station, and concerns about Ellon becoming a fast food hub. Supporters highlighted the potential for job creation, investment in the local economy, and the enhancement of local amenities. The proposal was considered a departure from National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) Policy 27 regarding drive-thru developments, as the Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan 2023 does not specifically allocate sites for such uses. However, officers recommended approval, citing the established principle of Class 3 use on the site, the compatibility with surrounding land uses, and the site's accessibility via sustainable transport modes. The committee was recommended to grant planning permission subject to conditions.

Formartine Area Community Council Funding 2026-2027

The committee reviewed the proposed allocations for Formartine Community Council Grants for the 2026-27 financial year, totalling £11,041. This funding is distributed based on a fixed grant per community council and a per capita amount, with a portion also allocated for a networking event for community council members. The report also provided an update on ongoing support for community councils across Aberdeenshire, including training resources and a review of the Scheme for the Establishment of Community Councils.

Statement of Outstanding Business

The committee received an update on two items of outstanding business:

1. APP/2025/1424 - Land at Middleton Farm, Potterton: The committee requested an informal session with officers to discuss how planning consultation responses are formulated. The format of this session is currently being considered, with a focus on consultations with the Roads Development Service.
2. Business Services' Area Committee Performance Indicator Report: The committee requested further detail on when buildings being sold are removed from performance figures, and asked for exploration into incorporating emissions and climate targets into the assessment of building suitability. Information is being sought from the Director of Business Services.