Mansion site homes plan is thrown out

Council hears neighbours’ fears over loss of privacy

A bid to build homes at one of Ayr’s oldest mansions has been thrown out.

Councillors have rejected the application for 13 units at historic Strathdoon House.

The plot, which dates back to the 1850s, had been lined up for a bold new private development.

Applicants Lawson McCartney and Cameron Marshall were told their design had raised concerns.

The retired widowers purchased Strathdoon in 2015 “largely as a creative project”.

But neighbour objections included a potential breach of their privacy.

Councillors had visited the site, a former NHS clinic, to pore over the plans in more detail.

Panel chair Brian Connolly said: “This has the potential to be a really nice development. It is a chance to bring a listed building back into life but there have to be concerns about the design.

“There is a possibility of it imposing on neighbours. There is no question about that.”

Councillor Ian Cavana added: “I have my reservations. We have got to consider the surrounding area.”

Concern had focused on a leanto design bringing the new build closer to its neighbours.

Councillor Connolly said: “I’m not sure why it needs that lean- to.

“It’s a shame as the development could be perfect.”

Councillors refused the application on the grounds it was contrary To The Local Development Plan with a scale that was “inappropriate”.

I have reservations. We have got to consider the surrounding area