Nicoll Russell Studios were commissioned by Aberdeenshire Council to develop a Development Framework to expand Inverurie northwards beyond the confines of the main Aberdeen – Inverness railway line and the River Urie. The study advanced the contents of the adopted local plan and was used as supplemental planning advice to inform the design of detailed proposals and the Council’s appraisal of subsequent Planning Applications. The study sought to provide a strong urban framework and identity within a development which would face a riverside park along the Urie.