Borgue housing controversy

A WOMAN’S bid to build a new house with views over Kirkcudbright Bay is being opposed by a group of her neighbours.

Linda Scott has submitted a planning application to Dumfries and Galloway Council to demolish a property and replace it with a new-build house on land at Millhall in Borgue.

The site lies within a cluster of houses within Millhall, which is accessed via a private road taken from the B727. The location also benefits from “an open vista over Kirkcudbright Bay”, according to council planning papers.

The planning report states: “An unoccupied modest traditional three-bedroom bungalow with later extensions currently sits within the site. It is finished in natural slate, painted render and white uPVC.

“Permission is sought to demolish the existing dwelling on site and erect a replacement 1½ storey three-bedroom dwellinghouse. It would include feature glazing to the north-east elevation.

“Finishes include natural stone, oak cladding and slate. Access to the site would remain unchanged.”

Planning case officer Iona Brooke is recommending that the application be approved, subject to conditions.

However, there are 13 objections from neighbours living in Millhall.

They argue that the proposal would result in over-development of the site and a dominant dwelling that “would be out of keeping” with the area in terms of massing, density, character and scale.

Neighbours are also claiming that the development would have a negative impact their privacy, and of the health and wellbeing of current/future occupants.

Other issues raised included light pollution to due extensive glazing proposed, the biodiversity of the area being threatened by building works, and that the materials used would not integrated well with the surrounding area.

Despite this, planning case officer Iona Brooke insists that the proposal should be approved as it complies with the council’s local development plan.

Councillors are due to make a decision on it at today's planning committee in Dumfries.