Regenerating Dee Street for sport, wellbeing and community use, with Phase 1 focused on the delivery of new padel courts.
The Project
Dee Street MUGA
BOA has identified the Dee Street site as its first major regeneration project. Located in the heart of Banchory, the existing facility is underused and in poor condition. BOA’s long-term vision is to transform the site into a modern multi-sport and wellbeing hub for the community.
The first delivery phase is focused on the installation of new padel courts and associated enabling works, creating a strong and achievable starting point for the wider regeneration of the site.
PROJECT UPDATE – COMMUNITY ASSET TRANSFER APPROVED
We are delighted that Banchory Outdoor and Active’s Community Asset Transfer request for the Dee Street site has now been unanimously approved by Aberdeenshire Council’s Marr Area Committee, subject to BOA securing the funding required to deliver Phase 1.
This is a major milestone for the project and follows several years of work, consultation and support from the local community, clubs and organisations. Our immediate priority is now to secure the funding required to deliver the first phase and begin bringing the site back into active community use.
Clarifying the Phased Plans
Recent coverage has highlighted the exciting longer-term vision for the Dee Street site. We thought it would be helpful to clarify how the project is intended to be delivered and what is – and is not – included in the immediate plans.
- Phase 1 is focused on the proposed covered padel courts and associated works, providing a realistic and deliverable starting point for the wider regeneration of Dee Street.
- The existing bowling green is not being redeveloped by BOA and we fully recognise its continued use and importance to the community.
- Only part of the existing putting green is proposed for redevelopment. The remainder will continue to be managed by Banchory Bowling Club.
- We are very grateful for the full support of Banchory Bowling Club for the proposed development and recognise the important role the club plays at Dee Street.
- Further sports and community facilities form part of the longer-term vision and would be developed in later phases as funding allows.
- The pavilion is not part of the immediate Phase 1 proposals and is something that may be considered as part of a much later phase of the project.
Recent Press Coverage
The Community Asset Transfer decision was recently covered by The Press & Journal, following the Marr Area Committee meeting on 18 August 2026.
The article provides an overview of the longer-term vision for the Dee Street site. The clarification above sets out how BOA intends to phase the project and the position in relation to the existing bowling green, putting green and pavilion.
Current Phase
- Phase 1 focuses on the delivery of new padel courts.
- This phase is intended to bring the site back into active community use.
- It will create momentum for wider site regeneration over time.
- BOA continues to develop the wider long-term vision for Dee Street.
- Funding and sponsorship support are being sought for this phase.
Long-Term Vision
BOA’s long-term vision for the Dee Street site has been shaped through public consultation and concept design work. The wider ambition is to create a modern multi-sport and wellbeing destination for Banchory over time.
Phase 1 Focus
- New padel courts
- Enabling works and site improvements
- Bringing the site back into active use
Wider Long-Term Vision
- Additional multi-sport provision
- Community and wellbeing uses
- Stronger local club and community engagement
Illustrative concept images showing the wider long-term vision for the site.
Our Delivery Approach
Phase 1 – Current Priority
Secure support for initial delivery phase
Deliver new padel courts and associated enabling works
Bring the site back into active community use
Phase 2 – Future Site Development
Progress wider multi-sport and community enhancements
Refine design, planning and delivery strategy
Build on Phase 1 momentum and community use
Long-Term Operation
Ensure sustainable management and maintenance
Support community access and inclusive programming
Continue fundraising and partnership development for future improvements
Supported by local clubs and organisations
BOA’s proposals have been backed by a range of local clubs, schools and community organisations, demonstrating clear demand for improved facilities in Banchory. We are particularly grateful for the support of Banchory Bowling Club, who will continue to play an important role at Dee Street Recreation Ground as the wider site develops.
Support includes:
- Banchory Bowling Club
- Banchory Community Football Club
- Banchory Lawn Tennis Club
- Banchory Primary School
- Banchory Community Council
- Banchory Yoga
- Girlguiding Banchory District
- Banchory Firebirds Netball Team
Key themes from letters of support include:
- unmet demand for better local sports facilities
- wider health and wellbeing benefits
- stronger opportunities for youth and community participation
Selected letters of support from local clubs and organisations
Support the Dee Street Project
BOA is currently seeking support for the first phase of delivery at Dee Street. If you are a funder, sponsor or potential partner and would like to discuss the project, please get in touch.
Banchory Outdoor and Active 