It represents the “settled view” of Aberdeenshire Council and identifies sites for development and the policies to be used when making decisions on planning applications.

For the next six weeks, communities, developers and other interested parties have a chance to have their say.

A series of drop-in events will be held in communities across the area and a dedicated online portal has been set up to allow people to take part easily.

Communities can come along to speak to planners and find out more about future development in their area.

Aberdeenshire Council’s head of planning and building standards, Robert Gray, said: “You may ask where and when more houses or businesses will be built in your area and whether the vision for your area is right for your community.

“I’d encourage anyone with an interest to come along to our sessions, discuss the proposed local development plan with the policy team and find out how to make their views known, or see the extensive information we’ve posted online.”

The plan will ultimately govern what will and will not be granted planning permission in the future.

The format of the proposed plan is different from the current Local Development Plan, with much more detail contained in the plan rather than in its associated supplementary guidance.

The proposed plan uses the theme of “Shaping Aberdeenshire” and contains the vision Aberdeenshire Council is promoting for its six administrative areas.

Detailed policies cover topics including “Shaping business development”, “Shaping development in the countryside” and “Shaping places”.

A more rigorous approach to mitigating and adapting to climate change issues has been included, in line with suggestions made in the 2013 Main Issues Report.

Significant amendments have been made to the new plan to accommodate national changes introduced by Scottish Planning Policy, including the publication of a new framework for wind turbines.

It is considered there is ample housing and business land in the plan to meet needs for the next five years, and the five years beyond that.

Meanwhile, councillors are being asked to approve up to 60 new homes near a golf course.

Members of Aberdeenshire Council’s Marr area committee have been asked to approve a masterplan for Inchmarlo near Banchory.

If approved, the proposed properties would be part of the Inchmarlo Continuing Care Retirement Community development.

The development allows independent living for those aged 55 and over, but in close association with care home facilities which can provide support and nursing care as the needs of the owners change.

The plans for up to 60 homes are earmarked for Inchmarlo estate, situated north of the A93 Aberdeen to Braemar road – and close to Inchmarlo Golf Resort. If the new proposal goes ahead it will take the total number of homes on Inchmarlo estate to 200.

A total of three different areas within the estate have been identified for development.

A report by Aberdeenshire Council’s infrastructure services director Stephen Archer said: “The three development areas identified in the Masterplan are considered an appropriate way to deliver the 60 units at Inchmarlo in Royal Deeside.

“They will provide a mix of size and type of homes, which will cater for all levels of people requiring a home within the care community.”