Port Erroll boat shed plan gets councillors approval
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A new boat shed will be built near Port Erroll Harbour despite fears it would have a negative impact on the historic landscape.
Mr R Stephen applied to Aberdeenshire Council seeking permission to build the unit on land across from 4 Harbour Street.
As the proposed shed would sit within the Port Erroll Conservation Area, it was brought before the Buchan area committee this week to allow members to consider it.
The council’s heritage team were not opposed to the plan, but asked that the design be amended to ensure it fit in with its surroundings.
Meanwhile, local authority planners recommended the application be granted.
They said the design was “distinctive” and noted it provided elements of traditional architecture and would use “appropriate” timber materials.
Officers also said it was “sympathetic” to the conservation area and would not have an impact on neighbouring properties.
But the proposal received six objections along with three letters of support.
Those against the shed raised concerns about its design and the impact it would have on the street, and said it did not fit in with the Port Erroll Conservation Area.
Local author Mike Shepherd claimed the boat shed was “much too big”.
He added: “A normal-sized garage would suffice, and as such would not upset nearby residents by blocking their view.
“It’s on a sensitive area too – at the beach front and its bulk will significantly impede the view out to sea from Harbour Street, an important consideration for visitors and village residents out to enjoy the walk.”
But neighbour Neil Furye backed the proposal.
He said: “The timber boat shed is in the style of a traditional fisherman’s building that was once used in Port Erroll.
“It will enhance the visual appearance of the area.”
Speaking on behalf of the applicant, Craig Fyvie from Baxter Design said they had worked together to be “very careful and precise” with the design of the boat shed so it was sympathetic to area.
He also argued it was very common to see buildings of this nature along the Cruden Bay coastline.
But councillor Stephen Smith urged members to refuse the plan as he believed it would have a negative impact on the conservation area.
Referring to the conservation area appraisal and its guidance on new developments, Mr Smith said the boat shed would “diminish” the street pattern and the architectural quality of buildings in the area.
The Peterhead South and Cruden member also said it would not “preserve or enhance” the character of the conservation area.
But councillor Matthew James backed the officers’ recommendation and suggested the shed be approved.
Following a narrow vote, the application was passed by four to three.
