Area of Common Good Land at Lower Deveronside Banff

What you told us

We asked for your views on a proposal to dispose of an area of Common Good land at Lower Deveronside in Banff. We received a range of views, both for and against the proposal. All of the comments are publicly available and can be found here: Public Consultation Feedback

Key themes included:

  • Some strong views that Common Good land should be protected and not sold
  • Opinions raised that the land belongs to the community rather than the Council
  • Worries about the loss of a long-term community asset and future opportunities for development of the site
  • Preference for community, recreational or green space use, including facilities for young people
  • Interest in alternative options, such as leasing rather than selling
  • Concerns about transparency, clarity and fairness in the process
  • Recognition that the land has been unused or in poor condition for some time
  • Support for bringing the site back into productive use
  • Perceived benefits for economic growth, local businesses and jobs
  • A desire to improve the appearance and vitality of Banff
  • Confidence from some respondents in the proposed purchaser and delivery of development
  • A general feeling that positive change is needed rather than leaving the land unused

We would like to thank everyone who took the time to complete the survey. Your feedback has been carefully considered and helps inform the next steps.

We heard clear concerns about the sale of Common Good land, including how it is protected and used for future generations, as well as the importance of community benefit, transparency and exploring alternative options. At the same time, we recognise that some respondents want to see the site brought back into use, with potential benefits for the local economy, improved facilities and the overall appearance of Banff.

The consultation was carried out in line with the statutory requirements for the disposal of Common Good land. This included a publicly advertised process, with information made available online and in paper format, and opportunities for people to submit their views. A question and answer document was also provided, setting out key information such as the location of the land, the reason for the proposed sale and the process being followed. The Council has a legal responsibility as custodian of Common Good assets and must follow a defined statutory process when considering any disposal. This includes public consultation, reporting findings to Committee, and seeking approval through the appropriate legal routes.

We also want to be clear about how Common Good assets are managed. Any proceeds from the sale would remain within the Common Good Fund, split equally between Banff and Macduff. This means the value is not lost and can be reinvested in projects and priorities that benefit the local community over the longer term.

We note the suggestions for community or recreational use, as well as alternatives such as leasing. These options were considered, however disposal of the land was preferred as it allows the value of the asset to be realised and reinvested, providing wider opportunities and benefits for the community.

While detailed and strongly held views were received, the overall number of responses was relatively low. This means the findings should be considered alongside wider evidence when making decisions. All feedback forms part of the Council’s decision-making process, alongside its responsibilities as custodian of Common Good assets, the potential benefits of the proposal, and the long-term interests of the community.

What we’re doing

A report was presented to the Banff and Buchan Committee on 16 June. The report can be found here, at item 14: Agenda for Banff and Buchan Area Committee on Tuesday, 16th June, 2026, 9.30 am - Aberdeenshire Council

The Committee agreed to:

  • Instruct the Head of Legal and People to conclude missives for the sale of the site to the previously identified preferred bidder
  • Instruct the Head of Legal and People to seek approval from the Sheriff Court under section 75 of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 to dispose of the Common Good element of the asset before progressing the sale
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