Treehouse approved
An objection over privacy
Plans for a treehouse in the grounds of one of the oldest houses in Bridge of Allan have been approved.
Neighbours had reacted with dismay over applicant Dean Hartley’s proposal for the back garden of Minewood Cottage which has associations with Robert Louis Stevenson.
The author of classics Treasure Island and Kidnapped stayed at the cottage in Abercromby Road during childhood visits to the spa town in the 1860s.
The treehouse will cover an area of 37sq feet, with deck heights of 3ft to 10ft, and a peak roof height of 20ft and according to designers will have a ‘rustic woodland feel’.
But one neighbour described the treehouse as ‘totally inappropriate’ and another said that, sited on unimposing structure that will be in keeping with the appearance and nature of the property and garden’.
It continued: ‘The tree house has been designed to fit discreetly and naturally into the curtilage of Minewood Cottage.
‘The structure is located away from the boundaries of the property and is naturally screened by trees and shrubs.
‘It is relatively small and will not be imposing in relation to the rest of the property.
‘The tree house will provide a cosy and comfortable space for the family to hideaway and enjoy the garden. It is sited within a part of their property that they currently enjoy for recreational use.’
Planners, in their determination, stated that the proposal accorded with Local Development Plan policy and all material considerations to justify approval.