The Marr Area Committee is scheduled to convene online on Tuesday, 27 October 2026. The meeting's agenda includes discussions on a proposed dwellinghouse development in Braemar, the potential asset transfer of Lumphanan Hall, and a review of the School Capacity, Reserved Places and Admission Limit Policy.

Planning Application for a Dwellinghouse in Braemar

A planning application for Planning Permission in Principle for the erection of a dwellinghouse at Land to South of Broom Lodge, 10 Broombank Terrace, Braemar¹ is scheduled for consideration. The site, previously occupied by a Girl Guide building, is located within the Braemar settlement boundary and conservation area. While Planning Permission in Principle is generally not considered appropriate within conservation areas under the Cairngorms National Park Local Development Plan (CNPLDP) Policy 9, the report suggests supporting this application as a departure from policy. This is based on the applicant's provision of detailed design information demonstrating that a high-quality dwelling, appropriate for its setting, can be accommodated on the site. The proposal would require a subsequent application for Matters Specified in Conditions (MSC) to finalise design details.

Lumphanan Hall Asset Transfer

The committee will consider an Asset Transfer Request (ATR) from the Lumphanan Hall Association (LHA) for the Council-owned Lumphanan Hall and adjoining house. The LHA, a newly established community group and registered Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO)², proposes to maintain and develop the hall for community benefit. The report indicates that the Marr CAT Steering Group has reviewed the ATR and recommends it proceed. The transfer would be for a nominal consideration of £1, subject to specific conditions relating to secured start-up funding, an initial cash-flow plan, adoption of a reserves policy, and a plan for managing priority repairs. The LHA's business plan highlights strong community support and outlines a strategy for sustainable operation, including income generation through hall hire, fundraising, and grants. The adjoining house, currently in poor condition, is not included in the initial operational plans but is seen as a potential future income stream.

School Capacity, Reserved Places and Admission Limit Policy

A review of the School Capacity, Reserved Places and Admission Limit Policy is scheduled for discussion. This policy aims to consolidate existing arrangements and establish a consistent, transparent, and evidence-based methodology for managing school capacities, reserved places, and admission limits across Aberdeenshire Council's primary and secondary schools. The policy supports effective planning and management of the school estate, workforce planning, and financial planning. Feedback from various stakeholders, including Head Teachers, Quality Improvement Officers, and Trade Union Representatives, has been supportive, with minor amendments made for clarity. The policy is intended to be implemented with immediate effect following approval by the Education and Children's Services Committee on 3 December 2026.