Aberdeenshire Council has appointed Ryden to market the former Archaeolink Prehistory Park in Oyne.
The prominent 2.22 hectares (5.5 acres) site has been divided into two separate lots, which are available separately or together. A purchase price has not been disclosed.
Lot 1 extends to 0.97 hectares (2.4 acres) and has been identified in the Proposed 2016 Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan (LDP) as “suitable for 10 housing units, including a minimum of 2 affordable houses”. The former 1,161 sq m (12,500 sq ft) Archaeolink visitor centre with 40 car parking spaces comprises lot 2 and the building has been “safeguarded for employment purposes” within the same LDP.
Andrew Smith, associate at Ryden handling the sale, commented: “Since the tourist attraction closed in 2011 the site has been vacant, therefore we look forward to identifying the right purchaser/s to bring it back into use. Various employment and leisure uses have been discussed and our client is keen to explore all appropriate avenues. To the front of the site there is capacity to accommodate up to 35 units, although lot 1 is only being sold in part for the creation of 10 units in this phase. Oyne is in close proximity to Inverurie and Inch which are ever expanding. We expect both lots to be met well.”
Chairman of the Garioch Area Committee, Fergus Hood, said: "Having considered a range of options since its closure, we are pleased to see this site on the open market and look forward to receiving a report in due course outlining any bids received.
"Offering the site for sale was considered to be the best way forward for the Council and I hope a buyer can be found who will make the best of the opportunities afforded by it."