Large Stanley development edges closer

Mar 19 2010 by Johnathon Menzies, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

HOUSING proposals for a Perthshire village have been approved – despite one councillor admitting he was “bemused” by the developer’s tactics.

Despite concerns about a lack of public consultation, Perth and Kinross Council’s development control committee this week sanctioned plans for 35 properties on land to the west of Sheilhill Farm, Stanley.

The application, submitted by Zurich Assurance Ltd, was described as “in principle” due to it being the first phase of a larger build on the same site.

Although contrary to the area’s local plan, it had been recommended for approval on grounds that the majority of the site was earlier earmarked for residential use.

Zurich’s agent Alan Wood denied the firm was trying to obtain planning permission for the expanded development “by the back door”.

Councillor Barbara Vaughan, representing objectors to the scheme, said there was the bid had raised concerns about the potential for developers to shun the democratic process.

She said: “No representative from the applicant has ever asked to speak to the community at large about these proposals.

“I feel this is an important point to note as there is a potential here for a very large development.”

Convener Willie Wilson pointed out that the council was on its guard against developers attempting to “come under the radar”.

He continued: “I’m still bemused as to why the applicant should come to us with this, rather than an application for the whole field.

“Stanley is a vibrant village and I feel it will be enhanced by this application.

“It’s quite exciting for the area, especially for the shops who, I’m sure, will be glad of the extra custom.

“I would hope that the applicants will engage in full and meaningful discussions with the community.”