Refusal of controversial house plan at Culloden battlefield goes to Scottish Government
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A FIGHT for permission to convert a derelict steading at Culloden battlefield into a family home will continue.
In the latest twist for a proposed development at Culchunaig Steading, architectural technician Mark Hornby, of MRH Design, has appealed against a Highland Council committee's decision to reject his plans earlier this month.
Although Highland Council planning officers had recommended approval of the project – a revised version of a previous plan rejected by Scottish ministers – councillors voted to refuse it.
Many councillors shared concerns raised by the National Trust for Scotland that the site of the battle fought between Jacobite and government forces in April 1746 is coming under ever-increasing pressure from cumulative development.
A statement submitted by Mr Hornby and his wife includes details of why he believes the reasons given for the refusal of the application are not justified.
It added: "The proposed development will result in a sensitive adaptation of an existing building, involving minimal architectural intervention.
"There is no alteration to the main elements of the steading, no extensions proposed and no change to the height of the building to ridge or adjustment to the walls to wall head height. Great care has been taken in the design to conserve the existing building, retain existing openings and where the internal layout has been informed by the existing fabric and openings.
"The development as proposed will not have an adverse effect on the setting of the battlefield nor will it fail to preserve or enhance the appearance of the conservation area. This represents a sensitive conversion and adaptation of the existing steading."
A Scottish Government spokesman said: "The appeal has been registered and the planning authority have been asked for their response to the appeal. Interested members of the public are entitled to make representation."
Related article: Campaigners welcome refusal of controversial house plan at Culloden Battlefield
