Landscape worry as homes refused

Plans to build two new houses in Bridge of Allan have been rejected by Stirling Council planners.

Mr F McNicol had submitted an application seeking to build the homes on land next to and south of The Old Stables at Pendreich Road.

Representations were made to the council suggesting that adequate passing places were needed along the single track road and that the proposal was sited on an adjoining field outside the original farm complex therefore would adversely impact on landscape character.

While council planners said a passing place would be achievable, they agreed that the landscape would be significantly affected by the proposed housing and said the proposals failed to meet policy on housing in the countryside.

In their decision, they added: “Pendreich Farm House forms one of six dwellings contained within a small cluster of buildings on and immediately adjacent to the farm. Three of the six buildings were approved on the basis that they were to replace the existing decaying and dilapidated farm buildings and would be built on a former brown field site. Construction of the dwellings is now almost complete.

“The elevated position of the landscape offers outstanding and varied panoramic outward views to Stirling Castle, the Forth Valley and the surrounding uplands, alternating with more introverted views where landform and/or tree cover close in. Views to this landscape are as important as views from within, forming an attractive backdrop to Bridge of Allan and foreground to views of the Ochils.”