Additional homes are approved

AN APPLICATION to build three more houses at Barran, Kilmore, has been approved by Argyll and Bute Council, despite calls for a hearing.

An earlier application submitted by Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) for 13 detached houses, granted in 2014, was amended to turn three into six semi- detached homes.

The plan attracted two expressions of support, four objections and 17 representations, with Kilmore Community Council voicing residents’ concerns that it ‘ would result in a further increase in population density, changing the nature of the development in the future’.

Planning officers recommended permission be granted, but Councillor George Freeman said at the planning committee’s meeting at Kilmory on Wednesday: ‘It is increasing the number of houses from 13 to 16. That is almost a 25 per cent increase. I would move that we have a hearing and a site visit, because it is quite concerning to see the increase in housing.’

Councillor Gordon Blair seconded the move.

However, the Planning, Protective Services and Licensing Committee voted four to two to approve the application without a hearing.

Welcoming an additional six affordable houses in Kilmore, Oban North and Lorn Councillor Kieron Green said: ‘I am reassured the existing road through the Barran Estate will be upgraded to cope with the increase in traffic as I know there had been some concern from residents about this.’