PLANS for a new development of seven ‘hybrid accommodation’ houses in Kilcreggan have been recommended for refusal by council planners.

Lucid Developments Ltd is seeking permission to build the new properties, along with a ‘community hub’ building, pathway, car parking and landscaping, on a hillside site near to the main B833 road through the village.

But a report by Argyll and Bute Council planning officer Frazer McLeod advises that the authority’s planning, protective services and licensing (PPSL) committee should turn down the application.

The plans comprise seven small properties, potentially suitable as holiday accommodation, second homes or studio space for artists, along with a communal space for occupants.

The PPSL committee will consider the plans at a meeting in Lochgilphead on Wednesday, February 20.

The proposal was unveiled at a meeting of Cove and Kilcreggan Community Council in September 2016.

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Mr McLeod’s report states: “The application site has significant amenity value in the immediate area and wider setting of Rosneath due to its mature tree cover and woodland appearance.

“The steeply sloping nature of the majority of the site, and the design solutions proposed to address this, will result in a form of development which would appear out of context with the surroundings.

“The combination of tall, narrow buildings with a steep roof pitch on stilts on this prominent location would result in a development that would have a detrimental impact upon the character and appearance of the locality by introducing built development that is out of character with its surroundings.

“The proposed development will result in the loss of part of this important woodland area, which occupies a prominent position within the locality.

“The loss of these trees and other vegetation cover and their replacement with buildings access road, hardstanding, paths, new drainage and car park will be visually intrusive, visually discordant and will not maintain or enhance the character of the area.

“The proposal will also prevent significant regeneration and replanting of trees by substantially reducing the areas available for tree cover and changing the character of the site.”

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The report added that even after trees were removed to make way for any development, remaining trees would also be at risk of damage during construction.

Mr McLeod also said: “The application site is designated as an Open Space Protection Area. In terms of mitigation the applicants propose a new communal hall to serve the village.

“Whilst this will have community benefit, the proposed development will result in the loss of this area which makes a specific contribution to the wider area as a green space, wildlife corridor and buffer between housing.

“Consequently, the communal building is not considered to be an alternative provision of equal community benefit given its size and existing function.

“The off-street parking provision is also contrary to policy as it shows the provision for 11 parking spaces.

“However, the residential units require 12 parking spaces.”