Garage planning row concerns

Fears that people can flout the planning process were voiced after construction of a garage larger than originally permitted was allowed to continue.

The domestic garage in Drumoig is five feet higher and has a 50% bigger footprint than was permitted.

As retrospective planning consent was issued for the larger structure, Councillor Tim Brett said: “This brings the planning system into disrepute and public confidence in the system may be lost.”

Some 15 objectors tried to persuade Fife Council to reject the deviation from the plans.

However, the council’s north-east planning committee was advised that the revised application should be decided on its own merits and that with no good grounds for refusal a successful appeal was likely.

Mr Brett said the case highlighted a major weakness in the planning enforcement process.

“It appears that individuals can ignore the planning permission granted and build something quite different.

“If they are challenged they submit a revised planning application and there is every chance it will be approved.”

Planners said the increase in mass was acceptable and the garage at Forgan Drive would remain subservient to the house it serves and the surrounding area.

They also said the planning authority was not responsible for assessing a developer’s intention, only the development itself.