Blocks of flats are approved despite 159 objection letters

Sep 9 2010 by Alastair McNeill, Hamilton Advertiser

CONTROVERSIAL plans for two blocks of flats in a residential area of Blantyre were given the green light this week.

A total of 159 letters of objection were lodged with planners over applicant Lou Lauder’s plans for land adjacent to John Ogilvie Church off Broompark Road.

Opponents had expressed concern that the buildings, comprising 13 flats in total, would overshadow neighbouring properties.

It was also felt that the development would bring increased noise and traffic to the area.

Others believed the scheme to be contrary to planning policy.

However, South Lanarkshire’s executive director (enterprise resources) Colin McDowall said he was satisfied the proposed scheme “can meet the criteria of these policies and guidance.”

He said the scheme, which is designed to limit overshadowing, would have “no significant impact” in that respect and added that noise and traffic was “unlikely to be at a level which would merit the refusal of this application”.

He added that a “phasing statement” covering construction work at the site would be made a condition of planning approval.

In a document put before the planning committee, Mr McDowall said: “It is considered that the proposed development will integrate well within this predominantly residential area.

“The style of design proposed reflects a modern style of flatted development which is common within housing areas and whilst not reflective of the existing surrounding buildings it will not detract from these properties or the area in general.

“In terms of layout, the proposed design has taken cognisance of surrounding properties, with the proposed residential blocks being oriented in order to limit any adverse impacts.”

He added that the scheme provided “an acceptable” level of off-street car parking and amenity space.

Mr McDowall further pointed out that properties surrounding the site comprised a mix of house types, including two-storey terraced houses.

He said: “With regards to the concerns raised over the height and scale of the proposed buildings, it is noted that they will be two storeys in height, one with attic accommodation, and as such are not out of context or character within residential areas.”