We have received an E-mail about a possible development on land at Balvicar around Clachandubh Farm and have been asked for our views on the type of development we would like to have – what would be of the most benefit to the island.
What on earth does this mean? My interpretation is that some speculator is out to make money and doesn't care what they build as long as the price is right.
My reading of the local plan was that the land referred to was all zoned as agricultural with no housing development planned . . . but of course the reference is so vague that we have no idea which piece of land is being discussed.
To ask for tacit approval by the Community Council in advance of applying for planning permission is underhand to say the least, and it is to be hopedf that the Community C ouncil have made it VERY plain that they cannot pre-stamp a planning application with their 'Seil' of approval in the name of the residents they represent.
The application cannot be for the land around Clachandubh Farm as it is marsh and bog all the way to the old school.
It could be, I suppose, for the meadows surrounding the house called Clachandubh (opposite the golf course) but I think it is more likely a reference to the oblong strip of pasture east of Clachandubh Farmhouse upon which youngsters often play football and shinty in the evenings. This land was zoned for "future rural development" in the Local Plan before last - the one we had overturned due to volume of objections. Currently it is tenanted by Strongorm but owned, I think, by the same landowner who gave the land for the golfcourse.
If something is afoot here what an opportunity we all have! As a community we could put tremendous pressure on the Planning Committee to only approve an application which includes a considerable amount of affordable housing allocated to young families who work in Lorn and to insist that part of the development includes workshop-type units for those wishing to establish a craft industry (or the like).
NOS
If one did want to apply for outline planning permission, wouldn't it be worthwhile talking to the movers and shakers on the Community Council first, perhaps discussing it over a meal?
