Homes plan in doubt
Plans for 300 new home in Monkton has sparked 30 objections from villagers.
It comes as more than 700 people are waiting on affordable homes in the village, according to a housing association.
Ayrshire Housing made the claim as it backs a bid from Barratt Homes to build a 300 home estate in the village.
Village residents have lodged 30 objections against the application for planning in principle.
South Ayrshire Council planning officials are recommending refusal of the proposal, which is due to be decided by councillors on November 10.
Jim Whiston, Director of Ayrshire Housing said: “Currently, as things stand there is a waiting list of 730 applicants expressing a demand for affordable housing in the Monkton area and it’s worth remembering that affordable housing remains a key goal of the Scottish Government who have a target build of 50,000 affordable homes by 2021”.
Mr Whitson added: “I cannot stress enough the importance of ensuring an effective pipeline of affordable housing and if approved this development will deliver approximately 75 affordable homes for local people in Monkton and South Ayrshire.”
Barratt Homes West Scotland and Rochpion Properties, which lodged the Kilmarnock Road plans, say it would bring a £ 75 million investment.
The application also includes a park and ride site.
Barratt say the Ayrshire Growth Deal will act as a “key economic driver” to help regenerate the area – and insist their plan should be central to that.
Objectors have raised more than 50 concerns including about flooding, building on greenbelt and increased traffic.
A report prepared by officials on the bid said: “The proposed development is contrary to both the South Ayrshire Local Development Plan ( LDP1) and Scottish Planning Policy.
“Given the above assessment of the proposal and having balanced the applicant’s right against the general interest, the application is recommended for refusal.”
South Scotland Labour MSP Colin Smyth said: “Although it is a matter for local councillors, I hope they will consider approving a development that will have a positive impact on the South Ayrshire economy.”
A special council meeting will take place on November 10 when councillors will vote on the proposal.