Enhancement works planned for Macduff landmark
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Aberdeenshire Council has submitted new plans for enhancement works on a local historic B-listed north-east asset in Macduff.
The local authority has submitted planning documents which seek permission to carry out refurbishment work on the Macduff Burgh Street Market Cross and anchor.
The plans also indicate that the Cross’ viewing platform would be removed after it was found to be “no longer fit for purpose”.
The Cross was erected in 1783 by the Duke of Fife to mark the creation of the Town of Macduff becoming a Royal Burgh.
Meanwhile the nearby large anchor has been in place since it was dredged up off the coast of the town by a fishing boat in 1972.
The Cross sits on a pedestal and is surrounded by a viewing platform that has been in place in its current form since 1983.
Over recent years it was noted that cracks had started to appear on the platform due to slippage of the surrounding coastal slope and it was deemed to be a safety risk.
The plans submitted by Aberdeenshire Council propose to remove the current platform, repair the Cross and its base, and relandscape the surrounding area.
New information boards explaining the history of the Cross and anchor have also been proposed along with benches and lighting.
A support statement issued with the application said that removing the viewing platform and stabilising the nearby slope would ensure the historic landmark’s future would be “secured for the benefit of all”.
It added: “It is also an opportunity to enhance the area, attracting visitors to Macduff and actively improving the appearance and enjoyment of the site.”
The works form part of the council’s Macduff Cross Enhancement Project that has been ongoing over the last 18 months.
Residents in Banff and Macduff were encouraged to take part in a consultation process and have their say on the plans through online meetings.
Banff and Macduff Community Council and Historic Environment Scotland were also contacted for their views.
