Council gives green light for homes despite concerns

West lothian Council recently granted permission for almost 100 flats and houses in a West lothian village.

Despite nearly 50 locals raising objections over traffic and more open space disappearing, the new development was given the go ahead on March 30.

The developers, Allanwater Developments ltd, were given permission for the building of 44 flats and 37 houses with associated roads, footpaths, parking, landscaping and associated works at Beatlie Road in Winchburgh. locals objected on the grounds of traffic safety, a shortage of parking and more building on West lothian’s green spaces.

One resident said:“The loss of open space would be significant. The site is currently home and provide food source to several wildlife species such as newts, deer, bats and raptors.”

Councillor Diane Calder from the Broxburn, uphall & Winchburgh Ward explained:“i am not objecting to affordable housing, however i think the amount of houses/flat proposed is too many for such a small space and in my experience, which is limited in planning, i do however remember phrases such as‘town cramming’being advised against within planning policy.

“Therefore i would be obliged if these comments can be taken into account”

The plans for the 81 new properties show a large variety of homes, including one and two bedroom cottage flats, two bedroom flats, two bedroom terraced attic cottages, three bedroom terraced villas and five bedroom semi-detached houses.

A total of 89 parking spaces are included in the approved plans. in granting permission, Craig McCorriston, head of planning, at West lothian Council said:“The layout and design of the development provides for a sustainable use of the land which lies within walking distance of Winchburgh Main street.

“The proposals therefore accord with the terms of the Winchburgh Master Plan and the adopted West lothian local Development Plan, 2018 and there are no material considerations to indicate that the application should not be granted.” The Courier reported recently that work is underway on a new district park in Winchburgh, featuring over 15,000 new trees and shrubs, and trails and play areas for local residents.