Go-ahead for A9 petrol station and drive-thru

Controversial plans for new roadside services on the A9 near Dunblane, which could generate almost 40 jobs, have been narrowly approved.

Stirling Council planners had recommended refusal of the application by GB Grove at Firs of Kinbuck at Balhaldie.

At a meeting of the council’s planning panel last week, however, members voted by four votes to three to give it the green light.

Dunblane Community Council objected to the proposal fearing it would erode the countryside, set a dangerous precedent for further development and encourage tourists and visitors to bypass Dunblane.

A total of 21 individual representations had also been made with some raising concerns over the scale of the development, light pollution, visual impact, and environmental impact.

Transport Scotland, whilst not objecting to the plans, had expressed concern about some road safety aspects, including the potential for an increase in U-turns, but said mitigation measures could be put in place.

At the meeting, Dunblane councillor Graham Houston (SNP) suggested while facilities for HGV drivers would be welcomed he was otherwise struggling to“find merit”in the proposals.

However, Tory councillor Neil Benny moved to approve the application, saying:“i think this is mostly a facility which would be used by people already on the A9.

“This is a business that requires a location alongside the A9. It does support tourist-related activities.”

Councillors Maureen Bennison, Graham Houston and chair Alasdair Macpherson moved to refuse the application, however Councillor Benny and councillors Alistair Berrill, Douglas Dodds and Jeremy Mcdonald voted to approve subject to conditions including provision of charging points, to work with Transport Scotland on road safety mitigation measures and others suggested by statutory consultees.

The proposed development comprises a petrol filling station, HGV truck stop, an amenity building (incorporating a rest area, toilet and shower facilities) and two units for use as a cafe and/or restaurant. The first phase will comprise a petrol filling station and a drive-thru restaurant.

A spokesperson for GB Grove Ltd said this week:“the plans represent a much needed £3.3m investment into the Stirlingshire economy and will create 37 full-time equivalent jobs.

“We are pleased that at a time of economic difficulty our proposal has found favour with members of Stirling Council who see the benefits that it will bring to the area.”