The Formartine Area Committee met on Tuesday 1 September 2026, discussing the Annual Scrutiny and Improvement Report, performance reports from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership, and several planning applications. Key decisions included the refusal of a planning application for 11 dwellinghouses at the former Ellon Academy Annex site due to concerns over overlooking and overdevelopment, and the deferral of decisions on two planning applications related to Tillycairn Steading to allow for a site visit.

Annual Scrutiny and Improvement Report

The committee reviewed the Annual Scrutiny and Improvement Report for 2025-26, noting the activities undertaken and agreeing on a proposed programme of scrutiny for 2026/27. Councillors expressed a desire for officers to remain present during committee scrutiny sessions to facilitate immediate feedback and collaboration on agreed actions.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Performance Report

The committee acknowledged the Q4 performance report for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, covering January to March 2026. Members discussed trends in incidents, including a slight increase in non-fire related incidents and a decrease in fire-related incidents. They noted a reduction in deliberate fires and praised the service's preventative work with schools and community groups. Concerns were raised about the lifespan of smoke alarms and the need for public awareness campaigns. The committee also discussed wildfire management plans and the importance of collaboration with other agencies.

Aberdeenshire HSCP Strategic Delivery Plan Performance Report

The committee received an update on the Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership's (AHSCP) first quarterly performance report for its Strategic Delivery Plan. Key successes highlighted included the completion of Phase 1 of the Strategic Review of Community Hospitals and the approval of the new Aberdeenshire Adult Carer Strategy. Members discussed service pressures in Formartine, particularly sustained demand and workforce challenges, and identified patient flow as a significant concern. The committee requested a summary of support available to unpaid carers.

Planning Applications

Former Ellon Academy Annex Site, Ellon (APP/2025/0521)

The committee refused Full Planning Permission for the erection of 11 dwellinghouses (5 dwellinghouses and 6 flats) at the former Ellon Academy Annex site. The refusal was based on the application being contrary to National Planning Framework 4 Policy 14 and Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan Policy 1, citing loss of trees, greenspace, and amenity, as well as an unacceptable impact on neighbouring properties due to privacy, overlooking, and the overbearing nature of the development.

Tillycairn Steading, Tarves, Ellon (APP/2026/0086 & APP/2025/2019)

Consideration of two related planning applications concerning alterations to the existing access at Tillycairn Steading and a Section 42 application to vary conditions for the conversion and erection of dwellinghouses was deferred. This decision was made pending a site visit to allow members to assess the access, turning area, and topography in situ, and to better understand the concerns raised by Tarves Community Council regarding road safety.

South of Sunnyside Farm, Hattoncrook, Whiterashes (APP/2026/0119)

The committee agreed to depart from policy and delegate authority to grant Full Planning Permission for the erection of a dwellinghouse at South of Sunnyside Farm, Hattoncrook. This decision was made on the grounds that the proposal would lead to a 25% improvement on current access arrangements. The refusal recommendation from officers, based on insufficient visibility splays at the junction with the A947, was overturned.

Statement of Outstanding Business

The committee noted the statement of outstanding business, with one item remaining concerning the formulation of planning consultation responses for Middleton Farm, Potterton. An informal session with relevant officers was to be arranged to discuss this further.