A housing developer has appealed plans to build over the top of a playpark in a Moray town after they were knocked back by the council.
Springfield Properties created the space at Bain Avenue in Elgin as part of a development which was given planning permission in 2010 – but wanted to reduce the size of the play area to make way for 26 new affordable homes.
However, Moray Council rejected the plans after nine objections were received from locals concerned about the loss of the green space.
Now Springfield has appealed the decision to the Scottish Government, stressing that the plans for 12 homes and four units of flats would actually enhance the area.
A letter submitted by the firm explains: “We contend that the issues here relate to a skewed view of the value of the existing open space and playpark.
“We would ask of the council just what public benefits are provided presently by the underutilised and denuded area.
“We propose an enhanced area of open space and playpark alongside new social rented homes.
“It is clear that the proposal would result in much-needed affordable housing and much-improved visual and recreational amenity, all of which warrants the grant of planning permission.”
The Scottish Government’s planning and environmental appeals division has lodged the application as valid. A decision about whether to overturn the council’s decision to reject the plans is expected in January.
