A plan to build a house in a north-east fishing village has gone to the Scottish Government on appeal after councillors blocked the scheme over fears it would damage a conservation zone.
Councillors representing Inverallochy refused permission in September for a modern home to be created at 5 Main Street, following concerns its design would be a departure from the traditional cottages it surrounds.
Under the proposals, an 150-year-old property already on the site would be demolished at the site, which would include the construction of an adjoining boathouse.
It is the second time the application has gone to government planners. It was originally thrown out in February when reporter Don Rankin backed local councillors.
He claimed the scale of the development, which would use two plots, “would not preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the conservation area”.
Architects, Fitzgerald and Associates, have now appealed the most recent decision claiming that the build meets Aberdeenshire Council guidelines.
A Scottish Government reporter from its planning and environmental appeals division (DPEA) will revisit the tiny community and make a new ruling on the proposals with a target of February 20 for reaching a decision.
Stewart Fisher lives next door to the site of the proposed scheme.
In a letter of objection to Aberdeenshire Council’s planning department, he raised concerns that approval would make the roads a logistical nightmare if the occupant’s visitors parked on the street.
He stated: “Main Street is a single track road with no pavements on either side or passing places.
“During occupation, if any visitors were to park outside the plot on Main Street, this would cause an obstruction and emergency vehicles would not have access.
“Main Street is also the access road to Inverallochy Golf Club. Larger delivery lorries use this
thoroughfare to make deliveries to the golf course.
“It would be essential that parking restrictions were enforced.”
