The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)

Farm shop gets the go-head amid fears of excess car trips

Plans for a new farm shop and cafe near Dinnet have been approved amid efforts to turn Deeside into more of a “day out destinatio­n”.

Labib, Fiona and AidanBlair Hassoun’s applicatio­n for the business was rubberstam­ped by the Cairngorms planning committee despite some objections.

The “focused and driven” Aberdeen family had applied to Aberdeensh­ire Council in a bid to build Balbregon Farm complex at Logie Coldstone.

Council officials worried about the impact on the environmen­t, arguing customers would need to “heavily rely” on cars to get there. They urged elected members to bin the proposal.

However, the committee decided the “fantastic” proposal would provide a welcome boost to business in the area.

The trio unveiled their desire to create a “most enjoyable and worthwhile day out destinatio­n” to residents and visitors alike last summer.

They felt the facility would “enhance” the area and add to popular attraction­s nearby such as the Burn o’ Vat and Loch Kinord.

Now approved, the “quality” cafe and farm shop will offer fresh, seasonal and locally sourced artisan produce.

Fruit and vegetables will be grown on the site and will be sold in the shop and used in the cafe, which will have cover for 50 diners.

The upper level of the building has a multi-use space that could be used – including weddings.

Staff accommodat­ion will be created on site in a bid to retain employees and reduce the need for workers to commute back and forth.

But planners had recommende­d the plan be refused as they were concerned visitors would have no choice but to drive there.

They noted there are no public transport routes nearby due to its remote location. There was also a fear that those walking or cycling to the facility would be at risk of harm as the access road is frequently used by lorries.

Meanwhile, nine members of the public objected too. Those opposing to the plan raised road safety concerns due to an influx in traffic, potential flooding and a lack of electric vehicle charging facilities.

There was also some concern the shop wouldn’t be viable as it would not get any passing trade. But those backing the plan welcomed the jobs it would bring and the additional support for producers in the rural area.

Glenlivet member Eleanor Mackintosh questioned the argument about car journeys.

“How are rural communitie­s going to go on surviving and thriving without the use of private cars?” she said.

While Aberdeensh­ire councillor Ann Ross raised concerns about the sustainabi­lity of businesses in more rural locations.

“Reliance on a car is not a sin,” she said.

“I’m very concerned and alarm bells are really ringing about the rural economy.”