46 new homes earmarked for Gretna

DOZENS of new homes could be built in Gretna – if planning permission is granted next week.

Hadrian Homes and Properties have submitted a planning application to Dumfries and Galloway Council for the construction of 46 properties on land at Hawthorns on the edge of town.

This proposal was first put forward, and then withdrawn in 2017, but the Carlisle-based developers have now come back with revised plans for the homes, roads, car parking, and installation of drainage systems at the site.

Council planning case officer Graham Smith is recommended that the development is approved subject to conditions.

His report, which will be reviewed by councillors at next Wednesday’s planning committee, states: “Located on the northern edge of Gretna, the site is part of a wider area of land which the Local Development Plan identifies for future residential expansion.

“The site, which contains multiple caravan pitches on its western half but is predominantly open land, is surrounded by housing to the east and west, The Gables Hotel (a Category B listed building) and Braids Holiday Park is to the south and open fields, an adjoining residential allocation, to the north and A75 beyond.

“A small watercourse runs along, just outwith, the eastern boundary.

“Permission is sought for 46 dwellinghouses, comprising of a range of one and two storey detached, semi-detached and terraced units.”

Two objections have been lodged with the council from residents in Hawthorn Close, and another has been submitted by the owners of The Gables Hotel on Annan Road.

The objectors argue that the housing development would result in a loss of residential amenity in terms of overshadowing and loss of privacy. They also claim it will have an overbearing effect on their properties due to the topography and design of the proposed houses.

The hoteliers also say the development would have a detrimental impact on the existing and future business interests of their business, insisting that the layout is such that “complaints from residents will be inevitable, which in turn may adversely impact an important local business.”

Objectors also stress that the local primary school does not have capacity for more houses.

Councillors will consider the full planning application and make a decision next Wednesday morning at the council headquarters in English Street, Dumfries.