Plans lodged for B-listed buildings near monument

Plans to convert and alter listed farm builings in the shadow of the Wallace Monument and Abbey Craig have been lodged with the council.

Bridge of Allan-based Allanwater Developments is proposing to refurbish the main Craigton Farm building as residential accommodation for a firm employee and convert adjacent dilapidated farm steadings into offices.

The B-listed Craigton buildings, which also include a circular horsemill, date from the late 18th and early 19th century.

According to a 2018 marketing brochure, the 1.98-acre greenbelt site – including the farmhouse, steadings, ancillary accommodation and paddock, as well as full planning consent for two additional buildings – was up for sale at offers over £550,000.

Documents lodged on November 27 with the Allanwater Developments’ planning applications, state: ‘It is proposed that Craigton Farmhouse is refurbished to improve the condition and overall use of the property, and that it is retained in residential use for the housing of an employee of Allanwater Developments Ltd.

‘The existing dilapidated and semiderelict steading buildings with the circular horse mill are proposed to be retained and redeveloped to form a commercial office building for use by Allanwater Developments Ltd.

‘The proposed development will allow a local company which contributes positively to the economy in the Stirling local authority area, as well the wider neighbouring authority areas, to remain in the Stirling Core Area’.

Allanwater Developments point out in their submission to planners that the mix of residential and commercial uses in the applications are ‘complimentary.’

The statement continues: ‘It was also noted that provided the parking is adequate for the use – and the residential parking area and office parking areas are separate, with all parking being appropriately screened to protect the setting of the Wallace Monument – then it there likely to be support for a positive planning decision provided by the Transportation Department.

‘It is considered that this application for planning permission should be examined favourably for determination.

‘We believe it accords in terms of the pertinent planning policy, and will result in the positive restoration and redevelopment of an empty farmhouse and related listed semi-derelict farm building.’