Housebuilder Claymore Homes has submitted plans to Aberdeenshire Council to build 800 homes, a new primary school and community facilities at South Ugie.

An application for planning permission in principle has been submitted after several consultation events with stakeholders and residents.

Halliday Fraser Munro is providing professional architecture and planning consultancy services to Claymore as plans progress.

The practice said: “The proposals follow the principles of a sustainable 20-minute neighbourhood, which will highlight the importance of having a well-connected and serviced community meeting locals needs within a convenient walking distance of their homes. Residents of the development will have the benefits of high-quality public realms and open spaces which will include a new local neighbourhood centre, quality new parks and a nature reserve adjacent to the River Ugie.

“The planning submission proposes the delivery of circa 800 new homes of which 25% are set to be affordable.

“We look forward to continuing to work with Claymore Homes and wider project team to deliver this sustainable new community.”

The architects said the blueprint includes an “excellent mix” of house types, from bungalows up to large six-bed houses, to “meet the needs of a wide range of people from the first-time buyer, families or those looking to downsize”.

Potential new shops, takeaways, offices and community facilities could feature in a neighbourhood centre due to be constructed in the centre of the development.

At the same time, a traditional village green area is also planned for the centre of the development which will give residents space to congregate, play or exercise and could even include a community orchard.