Plans for Tarvit farm development get the go-ahead

The development, on Pitscottie Road, was first lodged by Kingdom Housing Association in 2014, with planning permission in principle granted in April 2015.

However, the plans have drawn criticism, with 44 objections, including from Cupar Community Council, split 6-5 against the development.

Access to the proposed site at Tarvit Farm was a key objection, with many people commenting on the unsafe nature of the entrances to the development coming from Pitscottie Road, as well as the need to better link the development to the town with pathways.

Reporting to elected members, Alistair Hamilton, service manager, explained that in response to those concerns, the applicant carried out a Transportation Safety Appraisal report which examined the different options.

The proposed solution is a footpath link around the existing pillar that would tie into Tarvit Drive, the narrowing of the existing footpath on the opposite side and the realignment of the existing junction.

The result will see Pitscottie Road narrowed slightly to provide one metre of path on each side.

The Herald also understands that, now given approval, the applicant intends to approach the owner of the lodge in front of which the pillars and gates stand, to enquire about adopting the land in a bid to offer a route through the gate.

Commenting on the plans, Councillor Margaret Kennedy welcomed the fact that three members of the committee had been given the chance to discuss the traffic management plans with the applicant.

Her request that a condition of approval to require construction vehicles to travel through Cupar, rather than on St Michaels Road or Tarvit Avenue was accepted.

Cupar Community Council was split over the plans for the Pitscottie Road development.

Members debated the need for social housing in Cupar and achieving a balance with sustainability. Robert Graham asked the council to support social housing: “We have a need for affordable housing in Cupar,” he told them.

But Gordon pay argued: “I think sustainable development in Cupar is key,” and calling for the plans togo back to the drawing board.