Drakies residents fear loss of village atmosphere in Inverness hamlet
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RESIDENTS are fighting plans to change access to their close-knit Inverness neighbourhood.
Householders around the former hamlet of Culcabock have submitted multiple objections to a proposed new development seeking planning permission.
Springfield Properties wants to build 12 houses at the land to the rear of the 19th-century Drakies House, just off the city’s Culcabock Avenue.
But changes also include making the cul-de-sac into a thoroughfare by unblocking one end and the addition of a footpath – raising serious concerns among the community.
Previous attempts to develop the land around Drakies failed due to objections and concerns over road safety.
John Mckimmie (73) lives in Culcabock Avenue and is also on the local community council.
He said: “The whole community are up in arms over this application.
“Not only regarding road safety issues to school children in Thistle Road and Culcabock Avenue but to everyone, should an active travel route be implemented.
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“And also by the manner it was thrust upon them [the residents] with absolutely no prior consultation or communication.
“It is all too similar to what the residents had to deal with in relation to the houses in the field to the north of Drakies House.
“It was during this application that the Culcabock Avenue/Drakies residents first became aware of a future plan by Highland Council to link Culcabock Avenue and Drakies by an active travel route.
“It was not wanted by the community then and not even by the applicant’s agent as we subsequently learned from him at the site visit.
“An increase in numbers of avenue users will mean residents suffer loss of privacy, loss of amenity and noise pollution. Their tranquil setting will be stolen from them.”
In her objection, Louise Gray said: “The additional pedestrians/cyclists will incur greater risk at the junction with Old Perth Road.
“The footpath will also lead to many additional people using it as a short cut to town, cutting over the golf course and causing unnecessary safety issues. The residents do not want to return to the days of rowdy loud drunks making their way home, urinating in the street and gardens and I am sure the new home owners would not embrace it with open arms had they been given choices.”
Springfield Properties managing director (north) Dave Main said: “We’ve submitted planning proposals to update a formerly approved application within a residential area in Inverness. This phase of the development would include 12 homes, neighbouring Drakies House and would benefit from local amenities, such as Inverness Golf Club, Inshes Retail Park and Raigmore Hospital nearby.
“These homes will be energy efficient, fitted with air source heat pumps, making them better for the environment while helping to keep running costs low for homeowners.
“Our proposals, including the road layout, have been designed in consultation with relevant authorities and officials and we’re looking forward to hearing their thoughts in the coming months.”
