Aspire Restaurant in Portsoy will expand its kitchen and add seating after gaining approval despite tree removal concerns
Portsoy: Aspire Restaurant is expanding its kitchen and adding a new seating area. This comes after the restaurant’s huge success since opening in 2022.
The restaurant is located in a renovated mid-19th Century church. It had been empty for years before the renovation brought it back to life.
Work had already started on the expansion without permission. The local council raised concerns about removing a mature tree near the building.
Planners initially recommended denying the expansion. They felt it didn’t fit the local development plan and could harm the area’s character.
During a recent meeting, project agent Michael Ritchie explained the need for the kitchen extension. He noted that the restaurant’s popularity has grown significantly.
Ritchie also mentioned that the new seating area would protect diners from seagulls. This is especially important during the busy summer months.
David Urquhart, representing his daughter who owns the restaurant, emphasized the need for more kitchen space. He noted that Aspire has attracted many loyal customers and international visitors.
Urquhart pointed out that the tree was overgrown and damaging the building. It had been a problem for at least 15 years and has since been pruned back.
Councillor John Cox supported the expansion, calling Aspire a “victim of its success.” He felt it was unfortunate that a single tree was holding up the restaurant’s growth.
Councillor Glen Reynolds also backed the upgrades, noting they would help attract more tourists. He highlighted the area’s growing popularity for filming, including visits from TV crews.
The committee ultimately approved the expansion unanimously, allowing Aspire to continue its success.
