Year wait on homes plan

Those for and against plans for hundreds of houses in Bridge of Allan are still awaiting a decision.

Almost a year has passed since an application for 600 homes at Airthrey Kerse was referred to the Scottish Government.

The controversial planning application - submitted by Graham’s the Family Dairy - was the subject of an appeal to the Scottish Government, after being rejected by Stirling Council in March of last year.

The decision will be made by Government ministers, who are awaiting recommendations from an independent reporter.

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “The independent reporter carried out an inspection of the appeal site and requested further written submissions. These submissions have been received and recommendations will be made to Scottish Ministers to make a final decision in due course.”

Councillors voted 12-8, with two abstentions, last year to refuse permission on the grounds houses would be on an area of greenbelt land, and concerns about flooding and other issues.

But the company lodged an appeal on April 25, 2016, asking that the Scottish Government make a final decision on the plans.

Robert Graham, managing director of Graham’s The Family Dairy, said the firm are hoping a decision is made soon. He said: “The Airthrey Green proposal would deliver significant benefits to the area and we are hopeful a decision will be made very soon.”

Hundreds of residents object with Bridge of Allan Community Council calling for a planning inquiry.