2 December 2015
Following a site visit and hearing, today (2 December 2015) the Planning and Access Committee unanimously refused an application for three houses and a cancer therapy centre on land to the rear of Gartocharn Church.
Petra Biberbach, chair of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Planning and Access Committee, said:
“The benefits that the proposed therapy centre could bring are fully recognised. However, as this was a joint application for a therapy centre and three houses, the two elements together are not appropriate at this sensitive site.
“Our role in taking a planning decision is to balance development needs with safeguarding the natural heritage in a National Park.
“The proposed development does not comply with our Local Plan. Nor does it comply with our new Proposed Local Development Plan, which has been carefully crafted in conjunction with local communities who have helped to shape its proposals and policies. On this occasion, the contravention of housing policies, as well as landscape sensitivities are the key concerns.
“Officers have consistently and repeatedly advised the landowner how challenging the site would be for development over the last four years, as various proposals and applications have been submitted.
“We are, of course, very sympathetic to the aims of the charity and agree the National Park would be a wonderful location for such a centre. Should the charity wish to explore other options, we would be happy to assist.”