Inverness 380 new homes plan recommended for approval
Councillors are being recommended to approve plans for 380 new homes in an already densely populated area of the city, despite dozens of objections.
Members of Highland Council’ south planning applications committee are to consider the application for planning permission in principle by Robertson Homes for development of a site at Westercraigs, south of Kirkwall Brae.
It would include new landscaping, public open space and roads.
In papers prepared for the committee meeting set to take place next Wednesday (June 18) councillors are informed that the proposed development site is allocated in the Inner Moray Firth Local Development Plan 2 (IMFLDP2) and the Torvean and Ness-side Development Brief (TNDB) for residential development, as phases nine and 10 of the Westercraigs Masterplan.
They are also told: “The allocation is subject to a number of development requirements, including flood risk assessment; tree and woodland management plans; vehicular access to be taken from Kirkwall Brae; improved active travel links, and protection of the amenity of adjacent neighbourhoods.”
They are also reminded of a number of previous planning applications already grated for the area.
Planners state: “The vision for Westercraigs has been to redevelop the extensive site of the former Craig Dunain Hospital to create a high quality and sustainable new neighbourhood that makes full benefit of its attractive green setting and adjacent woodland.”
Inverness West Community Council previously lodged a formal objection at planning in principle stage, responding to approaches by local residents.
As we reported last year, in a lengthy submission the community council summarised concerns as being largely based on the number of residences proposed along with increased traffic volumes, the impact of a proposed bus gate, potential for flooding and lack of local infrastructure to cope with the size of development proposed.
IMFLDP2 suggests the site is suitable for 350 homes but planners state: “The capacity specified in the IMFLDP2 is indicative and different capacities may be acceptable if the layout demonstrates efficient use of land and a satisfactory site layout.
“There must also be sufficient infrastructure capacity available to accommodate the development.”
They say that the developer has increased the amount of open space and the size of the green network on the site as well as setting back the building line from the south boundary of the site. Proposed cul-de-sacs have also been removed and replaced with circular roads.
“It is considered that the footprint of the developable area has been significantly reduced to allow for support for the proposal,” they added.
An existing multi use games area (MUGA) located in the south of the site, close to Stornoway Drive, is intended to be retained as part of the proposals.
There are no objections from services including the council’s access officer or environmental health.
Find out more about planning applications that affect you at the Public Notice Portal.
