Council planners are backing a controversial 20-flat development in Spean Bridge despite concerns the two and three-story blocks are too high for the village.
Lochaber Housing Association is proposing to build the flats – all to be “affordable” accommodation – on a brownfield site south of Tigh Aran.
But a number of objections have been raised, particularly regarding the height of the development with some claiming it is “not appropriate to the village setting” and would be obtrusive to neighbouring properties.
The 20 flats would be set out in four blocks, two two-storey each with four flats and two three-storey, each with six flats.
The proposal includes 30 car parking spaces.
Other objections include the potential for traffic congestion due to access from the A82, while others point out the local development plan indicates the site would have a housing of “10 units” and not 20.
There are also concerns expressed about the area being a “peat bog” and prone to periodic flooding.
However, Spean Bridge, Roy Bridge and Achnacarry Community Council has voiced support for the project as there has been “a need for affordable housing for many years”.
They add: “A planning application for 20 affordable houses on a brownfield site in the village of Spean Bridge is a most welcome addition to the local housing stock.”
“Although there are some who have reservations about whether the siting of two and three storey apartments in a rural village is demonstrating sensitivity and respect towards the local distinctiveness of landscape, architecture and design we feel we have to be realistic.”
An officials’ report to go before councillors of the south planning committee on Wednesday states: “This is a well contained, brownfield site which has the potential for development.
“The layout and design of the proposal is considered to be generally acceptable. Although the introduction of two, three-storey blocks is a departure from the norm in Spean Bridge, it is considered that the characteristics of the site can accommodate this without adverse impact.
“The site can be adequately serviced and a surface water drainage scheme has been proposed which should result in betterment of the existing situation.”
Councillors are being recommended to approve the application.
