Slackbuie Farm development set to add another 105 homes to major development as some are concerned about the pressure on schools and medical services
The Slackbuie Farm development is seeking to build another 105 residential units – about a quarter of the total allocated for the entire site located about two-and-a-half miles from Inverness city centre.
The latest detailed planning application is due to be considered at the South Planning committee next week and the masterplan was approved in May 2008.
In total 416 new homes were sanctioned and the latest development brings the total number of homes to 388 – that represents a reduction in density across the wider development area.
The proposed development comprises 18 two-bedroom flats; 18 three-bedroom semi-detached homes; 18 three-bedroom detached; 43 three-bedroom detached; four two-bedroom terraced units; four three-bedroom terraced units.
The development is proceeding over areas and phases with applications coming in for each so that designs and conditions can be confirmed and with this one, though there is no obligation, seven affordable units will be available.
However, there have been some objections which Highland Council deems “material considerations” and including issues over the erection of three storey flats which had some people up in arms.
There are concerns that they are visually inappropriate and not in keeping with the surrounding area; they overlook gardens; their height would block sun to properties to the north of the three storey buildings and lead to a denser population in an already overpopulated area.
On that note there are also concerns about the impact on schools and medical services as well as the lack of amenities, open space for play areas and disruption and disturbance.
Some were also worried about footpaths with “rural style pathways” that need “regular inspection and maintenance” as they “lack visual appeal unless they are enhanced with thoughtful rural landscaping”.
