Controversial plans to build a 260ft wind turbine near a north-east village have been put on hold until councillors visit the site.
The proposal to construct the turbine at Nether Huthie Farm near Mintlaw, tabled by Lonmay firm Oosterhof and Co, has attracted 16 objections.
The Ministry of Defence also raised concerns about the impact the structure would have on the RAF Buchan air defence radar.
Despite the objections, council officers had recommended to the Buchan area committee that councillors back the scheme.
But yesterday members were divided over the project, and voted to defer the application for planning permission until after a site visit.
Central Buchan councillor Edie Chapman moved to grant planning permission.
She said: “I think everything has been covered. The planners have looked at it, and on the condition £35,000 be spent on a mitigation study I see no reason not to approve.”
Despite backing from some fellow opposition councillors, the committee voted to defer the application.
SNP Councillor Jim Ingram said: “What gives me concern is the cumulative impact. With the technological developments of the Ministry of Defence I have no doubt the mitigation could be resolved in a six-month grace period.”
The fellow Central Buchan councillor added that the 16 objections received – largely from neighbouring properties – deserved consideration.
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