Chicago couple Caroline and Lee Betsill bought the A‑listed property near Fettercairn last year for £780,000 and immediately carried out essential repairs to stabilise the building. Fearing the castle risked slipping into ruin, they later submitted a major renovation proposal that includes new garden walls and a traditional greenhouse within the grounds.

The application stalled after a September site visit, prompting the couple to appeal to the Scottish Government in the hope of speeding up the process. They were told the matter remained for Aberdeenshire Council to resolve, and the case was eventually passed to the authority’s local review body.

Councillors heard that some emergency works, including the removal of a chimney deemed at risk of collapse, had already taken place without formal consent.

Planning officers advised that the wider proposals would have only a minimal impact on the listed structure, covering reslating the roof and repairing or replacing windows. Inside, extensive refurbishment is required, with walls, floors and ceilings described as being in “complete disrepair” following flooding.

During discussions with planners, the Betsills agreed to drop several elements, including rooflights on the castle towers, an EV charger and part of a proposed canopy.

Planning adviser Bruce Strachan explained that the delay stemmed from the case officer being signed off sick shortly after the site visit. He noted that permission would likely have been granted earlier had staff been available to progress the application.

The review body unanimously approved the plans, clearing the way for the couple to begin transforming Balbegno Castle into their long‑term home.

Councillor Isobel Davidson welcomed the investment, saying it was “fantastic to see someone restoring a building like this” and praising efforts to return the castle “to what it was originally”.