Restaurant plan raises objection

Proposal to convert old post office

The former Post Office in Auchterarder could be turned into a new restaurant if plans submitted to council chiefs are given the green light.

Developer Cafe Milano Ltd is seeking permission from Perth and Kinross Council to turn the vacant High Street premises into what supporters of the project describe as a “good quality” eatery.

However, the firm’s bid to change the use of the site from a shop into the restaurant has sparked an objection from a woman who lives in close proximity to the one-time mail hub.

Fiona Cumming wrote to the local authority claiming the noise and smell the mooted venture could potentially create would be detrimental to her quality of life.

She explained: “We have umpteen eateries in Auchterarder.

“The smoking ban has pushed everyone outside, creating noise and mess.

“I already have the [nearby pub] Star Hotel patrons hanging around at odd times, dropping fag ends, shouting and swearing and coming down to the back of the old Post Office, right past my gate, where they urinate, smoke, shout, and generally make me concerned for my security.

“I like my neighbours but in the Star they cannot help the way people are today.

“I am surrounded by Indian and other takeaways and find the smells already overwhelming. I am concerned about the staff rest areas overlooking my garden (the building is no more than 15 feet away from my property).

“I can imagine yet more people hanging round at the back of the building, again to the detriment of my quality of life, my privacy and hygiene in the area.”

Ms Cumming added she plans to take the matter up with elected representatives for the Lang Toon.

She continued: “It’s economically insane if you ask me. I shall communicate with my local councillor and the community council and make sure my neighbours have their say and don’t give in to lethargy or a feeling that nothing they say will make a difference.

“We’d be much better having a Post Office back - the premises to which it has relocated are not suitable at all, with Post Office vans and other vehicles parking on the pavements and across the lane (Chapel Wynd) that is residents’ vehicular access.”

In response to Ms Cumming’s objection, a further Auchterarder resident has written in support of the planning application for 111 High Street.

Donald Ramsay wrote: “Further to comment already made - the premises will never return to being a Post Office, Royal Mail have relocated which they wanted to do and Post Office Ltd wanted to relocate the Post Office due to lack of work.

“The town will benefit from another good restaurant as it will bring employment and a good quality business. The plan is not for a pub which may have resulted in people outside smoking, etc, but for a good quality restaurant establishment and that has got to be good for the town as that is a sign of a healthy, vibrant community.

“I have heard lots of good, positive comments from local people both about the planned use and the reputation of the applicant who already runs two successful restaurants and has a proven track record.”

The planning application will be considered by planning officers in due course.