TWO controversial planning applications in the Helensburgh area will be decided at public hearings this week.

Argyll and Bute Council's planning, protective services and licensing committee will meet at the Rhu and Shandon community centre at 10.45am on Tuesday, June 27, to consider an application for two wind turbines at Laigh Balernock farm, between Shandon and Garelochhead.

And the same committee will meet in the Geilston Hall in Cardross at 10.30am on Wednesday, June 28, to hear both supporters of, and objectors to, an application for outline permission to develop a site at The Paddock in Ardoch, between Cardross and Dumbarton.

Both applications attracted plenty of comment from the public – though while opinion was split fairly evenly on the wind turbine application, for the Ardoch proposal almost every representation was against the proposal, which seeks permission in principle to develop five substantial family homes on the site.

Members of the public are welcome to attend both hearings.