The planning events at Nether Ardgrain hit the headlines when the below article appeared in the Press and Journal.
NEW PLANS FOR FARM'S AGEING STEADINGS
ANDY PHILIP 08:50 - 10 April 2007
Fresh plans have been tabled in an attempt to redevelop grounds surrounding the only category A-listed farmhouse in Aberdeenshire. The proposals would transform ageing steadings into new houses at 16th century Nether Ardgrain, near Ellon.
The applicant, a local farmer, was refused permission for larger-scale redevelopment earlier this year. The local authority sided with conservationists and objectors following a narrow vote, ruling that the historic setting would be lost under the plans.
Nether Ardgrain was built in 1528 by the same family who erected Ellon Castle about three miles away Taylor Design Services has now drawn up a new application including part demolition of an outbuilding. A tug-of-war over the future of the farm site began because the cluster of buildings are owned by two different families.
The ancient farmhouse, given the highest level of protection by Historic Scotland, was bought by Rae and Ellen Younger just over a year ago. But most of the steadings are in the ownership of farmer Sandy Low, who wants to diversify his business.
In an attempt to halt any change of use, the homeowners have lodged separate plans for listed building consent in an attempt to protect the original setting of the site. Mr Younger, 28, said: "We want to protect the site - we'll just have to start again from square one. "The good thing is that councillors have shown they're concerned about the historic aspect."
Mr Low's agent said last month that the council's original decision had been wrong and vowed to appeal. He could not be reached for comment yesterday.
