Plans for shop behind hospital shelved

THE APPLICATION to build a shop behind the hospital in Oban has been withdrawn by the developers.

Macleod Construction initially submitted a planning application to build a retail outlet at McKelvie Road, Glenshellach, Oban, on May 22 of this year.

However, following a number of objections, the construction company has decided to withdraw it.

A spokesman for Macleod Construction said in a letter to Argyll and Bute Council: ‘Due to the excess number of objections by the local community to the development, I regretfully withdraw our application to build on this site.

‘If in the future a shop is required by the community, we will try to find another plot within the development, which hopefully will be satisfactory to all parties involved.’

Jim Lynch, councillor for Oban South and the Isles, said: ‘I am disappointed. This place needs a shop.

‘There were 24-25 objections – but most people feel we need a shop here. Hopefully we can get something sorted.

‘It would take a big chunk of traffic away from Soroba Road.

‘Folk were telling me they were under the impression that a shop was going to be built, so they have had their hopes dashed.’

Roddy McCuish, depute provost and councillor for Oban South and the Isles, said: ‘To say I am disappointed is an understatement, but I fully understand the developer’s reasons for pulling out.

‘The [planning, protective services and licensing] committe has been pushing for a shop in that area for some time and I heard this many times leading up to the election from the silent majority who live up there.

‘It works in Soroba, Dunollie, Dunbeg, and Connel.

‘People will always use the supermarkets, but for milk, papers and bread they would use the nearest shop and in my opinion this would help a little with traffic on Soroba Road as there would be no need to travel to the garage for everyday items.’