Duncan’s of Banchory moved from its location on Dee Street in 2018 to larger premises on North Deeside Road, opening in February 2019. The adjoining TSB branch on Dee Street closed in February 2021.

Planning papers received by Aberdeenshire Council say the location at the busy junction created problems with the delivery and unloading of large items. Similarly, built across three floors with no lifts, the building presented issues for customers with mobility difficulties.

Shepherd Commercial put the site on the market for £400,000 in 2018 without any success, The Press and Journal reports.

On the Duncan’s of Banchory’s behalf, W9 Architects said of the new plans: “With the retail units no longer used, the buildings now require repair, reuse and upgrading so as not to fall into a state of disrepair.

“The owner seeks to give these prominent buildings a new life and reinvigorate the streetscape of Banchory.”

The planning application reads: “As found through experience, first and second floor retail is not practical and thus reduces the market yet further.

“The current retailers in the town are prominently small scale – providing local services. It is likely any future occupier would continue this trend.”

If the plans are approved, there will be a large three-bedroom flat on the first floor stretching around the curved frontage, along with a two-bedroom and onebedroom property on the same level. There will also be two one-bedroom flats and attic space on the second floor.