PEOPLE in Helensburgh have been urged to have their say on proposals for a major new housing development in the town.

The town's community council has given a cautious welcome to the Sawmill Field plans – while warning that it must respect the town’s natural assets.

Bellway Homes recently revealed plans for a 143-house development at the site, across the road from the town’s Waitrose supermarket.

READ MORE: Detailed plans unveiled for 143 new homes at east end of Helensburgh

The public can now submit comments to Argyll and Bute Council on the planning application, a decision on which is expected by the middle of May.

The site is owned by Helensburgh and Lomond South councillor Richard Trail and his three brothers, and was the subject of previous outline proposals by Cala Homes, who pulled out as the site development partner in April 2019.

Nigel Millar, who deals with planning matters for Helensburgh Community Council (HCC), has urged residents to submit their comments to the council by the deadline on Tuesday, February 11.

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He said: “In principle, HCC is in favour of the Bellway planning application for housing on the Sawmill Field site.

“However, as the site at the eastern entry point to the town, it is designated by HCC as one of Helensburgh’s ‘key environmental features’.

“HCC is looking for a development Helensburgh can be proud of – new homes of the highest design quality, with a sense of community, and a joy to live in.

“After all, as one of Scotland’s loveliest towns Helensburgh is worth it. Planners please note!”

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In a planning statement on behalf of Bellway Homes, Iceni Properties said: “Providing variety to the streetscape by introducing a broad range of house types will help to bring diversity to the development and assist in placemaking.

“The proposed development will provide a cross section of house types and arrangements designed to reflect a variety of building types found more widely across the area.”

“Access to the site will be via a new priority junction on to Cardross Road on the southern boundary of the site.

“The junction will include a right turn ghost island and a safeguarded area for potential future upgrade to a roundabout.”

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The statement concluded: “Overall, the proposed development will result in the creation of private and affordable dwellings to meet the needs of the local community, as well as the delivery of wider economic and social community benefits.

“It is considered that the proposal complies with the relevant policy requirements and it is therefore respectfully requested that Argyll and Bute Council grant planning permission for the proposed development.”

To view the detailed plans, and submit your comments to the council, click here and type in the application code 19/02604/PP.

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