Flooding fears could scupper Co-op plan
Flooding fears could be a sticking point for plans to create a new Co-op in Aberfoyle.
Environment agency SEPA has objected to the proposal to redevelop a vacant garden centre in the middle of the village but say the objection could be withdrawn subject to the findings of a flood risk assessment.
Stirling Council’s flood coordinator has objected in principle, however suggested that some measures might be taken to alleviate existing flooding issues.
Magnus Beresford of Easter Row Ltd wants to redevelop the vacant site in the centre of the village including altering and extending the existing building to create a 6,000 sq ft retail unit with a dedicated car park and service yard.
The Co-op Food Store which currently trades from a smaller retail unit further along the Main Street will relocate to the new premises, with that building then subdivided into three smaller retail units which will be made available for lease.
The site, purchased by the applicant last year, was most recently Guyana Garden Centre, but this ceased trading a few years ago and has remained unoccupied ever since.
Flooding has become an increasing problem in the heart of the village, with Stirling Council and the community expected to make a bid to the Scottish Government for flood alleviation scheme funding.
The owners of the neighbouring Forth Inn have also raised concerns about the impact of the new store project on flooding risk.
There is, however, also backing for the development including support from Strathard Community Council and independent conservation and heritage charity Friends of Loch Lomond and Trossachs.
In a submission to national park planners, community council chair Trevor Geraghty said: “Independent advice provided to the community council indicates the proposed development will not materially alter the flood risk as a result of the development.
“The site has lain derelict for a considerable period of time and continues to deteriorate. The developers have considerable experience working with the Co-op to create new buildings in semi-rural environments so there is every expectation that the development when complete will enhance the Aberfoyle Main Street as wellas provide a better shopping facility for locals and visitors.
“Additionally the off road parking and loading bays will take pressure off the main road and enhance the shopping experience in the remainder of Main Street.”
Friends chair James Fraser said the relocation of the Coop store to larger premises with dedicated parking would have a number of community and traffic management benefits.
He added: “The development will lead to a vacant ‘eyesore’ site in a prominent location being brought back into use and contribute to wider village regeneration efforts.
“There are clearly issues relating to flooding but this equally applies to many existing neary buildings. Hopefully the proposed risk management plan will address the SEPA objection and also take into account the concerns expressed by the proprietor of the neighbouring and long established Forth Inn.
WD Harley, agents for the applicant, said in their submission: ““Pre-application considerations have included several meetings regarding flooding issues with the site and in Aberfoyle in general. Most recently the site flooded in 2015 and during this flood it was evident that the stone wall along the north western boundary of the site restricted the speed at which flood water could recede to the water course.”
If the planning process works in their favour, the applicants hope construction work could take place between June and November next year.
Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park planners are expected to make a recommendation on the application in due course.