Glamping pod site in woods near Abriachan given green light despite objections
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
A GLAMPING site is set to be built in the hills above Loch Ness after it was approved by Highland Council.
The small glamping site, which would consist of six pods, will be built on woodland 135 metres south-west of the house Taigh Na Coille near Abriachan.
The application also includes the siting of a laundry/games room, and a barbecue hut, as well as the creation of a new access, and installation of a drainage system for the units.
Highland Council approved the application recently, despite five objections to the plan.
These had complained about the "over-provision of holiday lets in the area", and also claimed that traffic would increase significantly and that the site's foulwater drainage would be "inappropriate" for the existing ground conditions.
They also warned of potential impacts on local water supply pressures, wildlife and bin provision.
Describing the site, Highland Council planners said it is currently "covered by recently planted conifer trees". In consultations with planners, the forestry officer said that although the site was not ancient or long-established woodland, it was still woodland, and development would be contrary to some policies. They added that proposals involving felling of woodland "should only be allowed where it would achieve significant and clearly defined additional public development".
Scottish Water said it was unable to confirm local supply capacity to "fully appraise the proposals".
Granting approval, Highland Council attached a number of conditions, including the need to provide six car parking spaces prior to the opening of the site, and also for the applicant to carry out compensatory tree planting and biodiversity enhancement.
A council planning spokesman said: "It is considered that the proposal accords with the principles and policies contained within the development plan and is acceptable in terms of all other applicable material considerations."
