Hydrogen plant approval advised despite objections

A hydrogen production plant which could create thousands of jobs looks set to get the go-ahead.

Aberdeenshire Council officials are recommending the site west of Kintore is approved, despite a local council committee calling for it to be refused.

There have also been more than 80 objections to the plans.

Statera - who are looking to run the site - said the project was set to stimulate sustainable economic growth and create up to 3,500 jobs.

The application seeks planning permission in principle for a facility for the production of hydrogen through a process known as electrolysis and includes an underground pipeline.

The local Garioch area committee said planning permission should be refused - for a number of reasons, including the impact on the historic landscape, the loss of woodland as well as the visual impact on the local area.

However, officers have recommended that full council approves the plan on Thursday, subject to conditions.

Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce supports the plans saying the project is "vital" for the region's clean energy ambitions.

Chief executive Russell Borthwick said: "The local workforce and supply chain stand to be the biggest winners from this major investment in our region as Aberdeenshire moves towards a clean energy future.

"That's why it's so important that the whole community – businesses, local residents and government at all levels – unites behind ensuring this vision becomes a reality."