"We need to take a look at various planning matters and decide how we, as a council, want to take things forward," said Mr Banski.

"A number of issues are coming before the council that we need to take a good look at, one of which is the Structure Plan, which is now in draft form.

"The issue is not just the development of Laurencekirk, but of the surrounding villages as well. In some of the villages, residents are unhappy with the areas proposed for development, so we want to hear their views.

"There is also the question of infrastructure such as drainage and water supply and we need to establish what the capacities are.

"We do not want to stymie development, but we need the infrastructure first. We need to see everything in place to allow growth.

"The Structure Plan indicates 500 more houses for Laurencekirk up to 2015, but to allow for that we need drainage, water, transport, recreation and education facilities.

"We need to look at the area as a whole and I hope that is what Aberdeenshire Council will do. They are a council which takes the views of the people fairly seriously.

"The councillors are elected by us and the officers are employed by the council, so there has to be accountability.

"Now is the chance to drive forward what we the people want and I feel we have councillors who are prepared to listen."

Mr Banski says that in terms of infrastructure, two requirements dominate, the need for grade separation at the A90/A937 junction and the need for a new Mearns Academy.

He said the junction has to be in the upcoming strategic review to at least give people some hope that something will be done.

"If Laurencekirk is part of the Huntly-Laurencekirk development corridor which is to see growth in future years, both Aberdeenshire Council and the Scottish Parliament have to take consultation seriously.

"We need a viable and sustainable South Mearns which allows us to retain business and encourage new business as we do not want to be entirely a commuter area."