Pitlochry locals to fight planned hotel development

Feb 12 2010 Perthshire Advertiser Friday

DEVELOPERS yesterday faced mounting opposition to the proposed demolition of the Old Bank House Lodge in Pitlochry.

Following an extraordinary meeting attended by 100 people this week, Pitlochry and Moulin Community Council revealed it intends to object to plans that include a hotel, retail and residential complex in the heart of the town .

A planning application lodged by Upland Development has proposed the demolition of the former Old Bank backpackers’ hostel at 78 Atholl Road, and the defunct Bakers Oven bakery close by.

While neither building is classified, both fall under the recently designated Pitlochry Conservation Area.

“The community council and local residents feel that the old bank building has some merit,” said council chair Kathleen Scott.

“It’s in the centre of town, has strong character and is a stone-built building with Victorian era features in keeping with the character of the area.

“But the consensus at the meeting was that there was absolutely no need to retain the bakers building as it has no character or features of merit.”

Upland Development’s vision for the combined 6700sqm site involves a building on the lodge plot with 16 upstairs flats, six ground floor retail units and 53 car parking spaces.

The bakery land will house a ground floor retail unit with an upper hotel featuring 52 beds.

Archial Architects have stated the plans are “an opportunity to replace these redundant and relatively nondescript existing buildings with a new development which could complement and enhance the character of the wider area”.

However, at this week’s public meeting, there was general agreement to the contrary.

“People felt that the new building to replace the Old Bank Lodge is not in keeping with the surrounding area,” said Ms Scott.

“At some points it reaches four storeys and will obscure views of the iconic old church spire and clock.

“There was also a question as to whether we actually need additional shops as there are already quiet a few vacant shops in town.”

She said PMCC was preparing documents to lodge with Perth and Kinross Council before next Friday’s deadline for comment.

“These are views obtained by the council in the best interests of the community and town, and in no way do our actions prevent individuals from lodging comments and we encourage people to do so,” said Ms Scott.