New security plans for Balmoral Estate approved by council

THE Queen has been given the go-ahead for a range of new security measures at Balmoral.

New CCTV cameras, electronic gates, a modernised intercom system and a fence are to be erected at the 50,000acre estate.

The plans come amid reports that the 96-yearold monarch is to spend more time at her cottage there as she plans a future with fewer official royal engagements.

The CCTV cameras are to be attached to a B-listed property in the grounds which was historically used as a post office and shop.

Planning officers at Aberdeenshire Council granted permission for the security measures earlier this week.

Plans submitted in March stated the works were required “for additional legitimate security reasons for the Balmoral Estate”.

The location of the CCTV cameras on the building had to be changed during the planning process after concerns were raised by Historic Environment Scotland and the council’s own built heritage department.

They were relocated from a prominent corner of the listed building to a more discrete position on the side elevation.

In a written report, planning officials said: “The key planning issue relevant to these proposals is whether the design and scale of the proposals upholds the existing character of both the listed building and the surrounding area.

“Concerns were outlined by both Built

Heritage Environment and Historic Environment Scotland (HES) regarding the initial proposed siting of the CCTV cameras on the prominent corner of the listed building.The plans were amended.

“In conclusion, the proposed development is of appropriate layout, siting and design in upholding the existing traditional rural character of the site.

“The proposals will provide beneficial additional security measures to the Balmoral Estate and shall help effectively manage the flow of vehicular traffic and pedestrians entering the site.

“The proposals are adjudged to be in full compliance with the relevant policies and are therefore recommended for approval.”

The vehicular and pedestrian gates will be erected at an existing stone bridge entrance to the estate.

Timber fencing is to be erected to the north of the existing bridge access to “improve pedestrian safety in proximity to a steep river embankment”.

Last year the council granted permission for a lift at Craig Gowan House at Balmoral.

The C-listed property is said to be used by the Royal Family on shorter visits to their Scottish retreat to avoid opening up Balmoral Castle.

In recent months royal sources have said the Queen plans to spend more time there.

The monarch traditionally spends 12 weeks at the estate every summer and the castle is open to the public for the rest of the year.

The Queen will spend more time at Balmoral in future.