The big picture for development

Sir, – May I clarify Dundee Civic Trust’s position concerning the development of greenfield or brownfield sites (“Dundee Civic Trust makes its case over large estates”, The Courier, October 18).

The trust is not opposed to the Western Gateway development, and are on record as having supported it because it has been part of the Local Development Plan for many, and is close to major employment hubs.

Having houses reasonably near to Ninewells Hospital, the universities and other larger employers is in accordance with our preference for reduced travelling time, car use, pollution and environmental impact.

Our concern relates to the proposal, not yet approved, for more than 1,000 houses to the north and east of the city near Arbroath Road.

This development is not in the current local plan and is several miles from the city centre and up to 12 miles from Ninewells.

We would have more traffic, car ownership, more travel time, pollution, infrastructure, and more destruction of prime agricultural land.

Dundee and Angus councils should robustly oppose such building projects, and they should have the support of the Scottish Government if an appeal is taken by a developer. Incidentally, the trust is pleased Dundee City Council propose to build affordable housing on the sites of several former schools – a good example of developing brownfield sites .

There are ample existing brownfield sites and buildings closer to the city centre that developers should be encouraged to build on. Donald Gordon. Chairman, Dundee Civic Trust,

St Bride’s Cottage, South Kingennie, Broughty Ferry.