Black Isle house plan forced through
COUNCILLORS went against the recommendation of planners this week when they approved plans for a timber house, which have divided local opinion.
Planning officials recommended refusal of Amy MacDonald’s plan to build a house within a green field site in Knockmuir, Avoch, on the grounds that it would create an “undesirable precedent” and bring further pressure for development in that location.
The application had been refused initially using delegated powers but the majority of local ward councillors asked that it be brought to the committee for determination.
It attracted six representations from the public, some objecting to the proposals and others in support of the larch-clad house.
The objectors claimed it was contrary to development plan policy, would not form part of a housing group, would be intrusive on the landscape on undeveloped land described as “one of Avoch’s best assets” and would allow for further houses to be built in the field.
Those in support said the proposal was modest and in proportion, would be tucked neatly into the hillside and would connect to the other houses nearby.
The application was granted approval at a meeting of the Ross, Skye and Lochaber planning committee on Tuesday.
See this week's Ross-shire Journal for a list of the latest planning applications.
