A new grandstand and visitor centre for the Braemar Highland Games and eight affordable homes for Ballater were among the applications approved by the Planning Committee of the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) at its meeting in Ballater today (6^th June).

The Braemar Royal Highland Charity is behind the plans to demolish the existing West Stand overlooking the Princess Royal and Duke of Fife Memorial Park, which will be replaced by a new grandstand, incorporating a visitor centre, exhibition space, office, retail area and cafe. The new building will provide year-round facilities and give visitors the chance to learn more about the culture and history of the traditional Highland Games.

CNPA Board Member Brian Wood said: “I am delighted to be able to support this application. The Braemar Highland Games are known the world over and attract visitors from far and wide. To be able to offer improved facilities that can be accessed all the year round, not just on Games Day, will be very beneficial to the whole community.”

The Planning Committee also approved an application from Aberdeenshire Council for eight new affordable houses for rent, just off Ballater’s Patrick Geddes Drive. The two-bedroom properties will occupy a site which is currently open space, with a small play park which is to be relocated nearby.

Planning Committee Convener Eleanor Mackintosh commented: “Like many communities in the Cairngorms National Park, Ballater desperately needs affordable housing so I very much welcome this application from Aberdeenshire Council. It’s in a good central location and handy for local amenities and facilities.”

To read the planning papers in full please go to: https://cairngorms.co.uk/meeting/planning-2014-06-06/