Anger in rural village as plans to build 67 new homes given green light

A Reporter appointed by the Scottish Government has said he intends to uphold an appeal by Springfield Properties, which earlier this year was refused permission to build 59 houses and eight flats on land at the Pitdownies in Milnathort.

Local councillor Willie Robertson fiercely criticised the planning process and members of Milnathort Community Council expressed dismay at the Reporter’s stance.

Said Councillor Robertson: “More than 160 people objected to this application but their concerns were ignored.

“This is an absolute joke and an affront to democracy. We have no comeback on this decision and there are serious concerns about the impact this development will have on local infrastructure, road safety and the water quality of Loch Leven.

“It seems that the views of local people who have to live with this mean absolutely nothing.”

Springfield’s application was unanimously rejected by councillors in February after refusal was recommended by planning officials on the grounds of over-development of the site and the lack of a biodiversity report on one particular area.

While planners did not cite any of the objectors’ comments as a reason for refusal, elected members were more sympathetic after hearing an impassioned plea by the Pitdownies Action Group. Its members fear that the development will cause chaos on the village’s historic streets due to a lack of suitable access and will place a huge strain on local health and education services.

And with another 77 houses currently under construction at nearby Pace Hill, it is estimated that the Pitdownies development will result in almost 300 extra cars being be forced to use a single access point that is already a notorious bottleneck.

Malcolm Thomson, chairman of Milnathort and Orwell Community Council, said: “We fought tooth and nail against this development and we are bitterly disappointed that the Reporter upheld the appeal without taking cognisance of the views of the villagers whose lives will be seriously affected.”

In his findings, Mr Buylla concluded that the development would ‘complement its surroundings’ and that associated impacts on infrastructure and residential amenity could be successfully addressed.

“I am satisfied that phosphorous discharge into Loch Leven is not a reason to withhold planning permission,” he said.

“I find that the development would deliver an efficient and attractive solution to a long-standing housing allocation.

“I am satisfied, overall, that it would be in accordance with the development plan and that there are no material considerations that would justify refusing permission.”

Springfield Properties central managing director, Peter Matthews, said: “The land for this development has been allocated for housing by the council, our plans meet the requirements of the council’s roads team, complies with the policy to protect Loch Leven and will help meet the growing demand for quality, affordable homes in the area.

“The homes are stylish and energy efficient, which is better for the environment and keeps running costs low for residents. The development will also support the local economy with job opportunities for local trades and suppliers and additional tax receipts for the council.”