Objections to house proposal at Barnhill

Walking route worry

Council planners have been slammed over a “bizarre and incomprehensible” condition affecting a proposed housing development in Perth.

The scheme for a single home at Barnhill in the city is due to come before the development management committee tomorrow where it has been recommended for approval.

But it sparked the ire of volunteers at the Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park group over its handling, with concerns that walkers could lose out.

Scott and Krystin Wilson want to develop the site near Fairmount Terrace.

A previous scheme was submitted and withdrawn, and the current ‘in principle’ plan was submitted.

But when put out to consultation the woodland park group was among six correspondents to pen an objection over various elements of the plans.

Chairman Norman Renfrew hit out at elements of the scheme, saying that it falls on an access route to the woodland park and a core path.

But for around 100m he says there is barely sufficient room for the variety of users, with walkers running the risk of “falling in a ditch” or “diving into a hedge” to avoid vehicles.

Mr Renfrew added: “That scenario is bad enough, but combined with the councils (sic) bizarre and incomprehensible interpretation of a planning application ... makes a very serious access problem.”

He said that two pedestrian refuges effectively passing places on the route - had been set out, but that none had been pencilled in to the designs.

He suggested that a footpath over a culvert might be a solution.

Other concerns about loss of amenity and drainage issues affecting neighbouring properties were also received.

In his report, interim head of planning Nick Brian supported approval.

He also said: “I share the views and concerns of the local community regarding the possibility of new development overlooking their property.

“However I am satisfied that the scale of the site allows for the house to be positioned in a location which would not impact detrimentally on the neighbouring properties.

“The orientation of the house, together with the window positions will be an important consideration in the detailed application.

“Overall this issue can be addressed at the detailed application stage, but the principle of erecting a dwelling on this site is considered acceptable and in accordance with LDP policy.”