New housing set to be given thumbs-up
Former greenbelt land in Hamilton is set to be turned into a new housing development.
The 3.1 hectare site at Torhead Farm had previously been considered as greenbelt land but has been included in the Hamilton Community Growth since the South Lanarkshire Local Development Plan was adopted in 2015.
Developers Bellway Homes have now had two planning applications granted for the site off Meikle Earnock Road and Stewart Avenue – the first to discharge previous planning conditions and allow a residential development on the site and the second to build 56 new homes.
Initial proposals for the development were for 57 houses but these were amended following concerns over parking provision and the layout of the site.
No objections to the proposals were raised from statutory consultees subject to conditions or from members of the public however, South Lanarkshire Council’s arboricultural department recommended the application be deferred until more information on the impact to trees both onsite and in adjoining areas was obtained.
A tree survey report submitted by the applicant indicated that a number of trees were of “poor and declining condition” while others were of “low retention value”.
No works are proposed to any trees adjoining the site so a condition was attached to ensure their protection.
Permission for the 56 houses was granted on the condition that community benefits – also known as a section 75 agreement – including financial contributions to roads, education, community facilities and affordable housing is agreed between the council and the developers.
A report by community and enterprise director Michael Mcglynn said: “No specific concerns have been raised by the various consultees and any requirements raised by the consultees can be addressed through the use of conditions, where appropriate to do so.
“No third party representations were received in respect of the development proposals.
“In conclusion, it is considered that in terms of the detailed development of the site, the application proposal conforms to both national and local plan policy and that it raises no significant environmental, infrastructure or road safety issues.
“The proposal will deliver a development which is of a high quality design, consistent with surrounding development, and will help towards the council meeting its housing needs targets.
“The proposed development is considered to be acceptable and complies with the relevant policies contained in the adopted and proposed local plans and relevant supplementary guidance.
“It is recommended that planning permission be granted subject to the conditions listed. However, the issue of consent should be withheld until the conclusion of the associated planning obligation under Section 75 of the Planning Act.”
Permission for the development was granted under delegated authority by South Lanarkshire Council chief executive Cleland Sneddon in consultation with the five political group leaders on Tuesday, May 5.
Development Meikle Earnock Road near Brackenhill Farm