Moffat homes scheme set to be approved

UP to 68 new houses could be built near Well Road in Moffat, if councillors approve the plans next week.

The proposal for the new homes alongside 15 detached garages and 176 parking spaces is being put forward by Hartfell Developments on a 6.8 hectare site on the north-east edge of Moffat.

It forms part of the larger Selkirk Road Moffat Housing Masterplan and will feature a mix of two, three and four bedroom homes and bungalows – with some of the properties being provided as affordable homes.

A total of six objections have been submitted to the council citing issues relating to traffic management during construction; concerns about impacts on wildlife particularly badgers; and flooding risk.

It has also been argued that the area doesn’t have the infrastructure and local services to accommodate the increased population, while

claims have been made that the children’s play park is in an unsafe location at the entrance to the development, and in close proximity to the archaeologically sensitive Motte site.

However, council roads officers; SEPA; Scottish Water and other statutory consultees have raised no objections to the plans

And councillors are being advised to approve the application subject to conditions.

A report for them, ahead of next Wednesday’s meeting, states: “During the course of the application, the applicant has adjusted the design and

the detail of the proposals to satisfactorily address concerns of the consultees, officers and a number of the objections.

“In conclusion, the revised proposal is considered to be compliant with the provisions of the stated Development Plan Policies and as there are no material considerations which override the presumption in favour of a determination in accordance with the terms of the development plan, it is recommended that this proposal be approved subject to the conditions.”