Planning chief in favour of 100-house Crieff development

Landmark will be central feature

A council chief is recommending the approval of a housing plan which would see more than 100 homes built near a Strathearn landmark.

The local authority’s interim head of planning Nick Brian claims the proposal for the development at Wester Tomaknock, Crieff, which has been lodged by GS Brown Construction Ltd, will create homes to meet forecast population growth and housing needs.

A design statement, submitted by GS Brown Ltd along with their plan, suggests the development will provide a “structured extension” to Crieff and should “enhance” the town with a “heritage” of fine buildings and gardens.

“With rising land prices, developers have increasingly built narrow-fronted family homes to obtain the best return on their investment,” the statement reads. “However, the current demand to serve falling occupancy rates and Crieff’s ageing population is for smaller houses, bungalows and flats.

“With the removal of a farmhouse and outbuildings at Wester Tomaknock there is an opportunity for a bold approach, taking a cue from Crieff Hydro, to construct a castle-style structure in their place which would act as a dominant central feature.”

The 102 homes will comprise semidetached, bungalows, split level and storey flats using the Knock as a central feature. The project will incorporate 25% affordable housing and a play area.

Mr Brian said there had initially been a lack of detailed of information on surface water drainage and a lack of protected species survey.

“The applicants were requested and encouraged to address the various oversights and review the design and architecture of the affected plots,” he said in his report, which will be discussed by councillors on Wednesday.

But he highlights his reasons for recommending approval.

“During the construction period, jobs will be created and sustained, supporting indirect employment and revenue that this volume of construction will generate from employees spending on local goods and services,” he added.

“Additional residents to the area will also support existing local employment and services in that area.

“The proposed development is considered competent and compliant with the key principles of the local development plan.”

The current demand to serve falling occupancy rates and Crieff’s ageing population is for smaller houses, bungalows and flats. GS BROWN LTD