COUNCILLORS have awarded planning permission for an extended car park in Tarbert, despite concerns about the width of the access route.
The application by Tarbert Harbour Authority for the Garval Road site attracted 40 objections from the public, along with 16 expressions of support and one neutral representation.
But one councillor remarked that he was “really quite excited” by the proposed development, saying that it would “add real value” to the village.
Members of Argyll and Bute Council’s planning, protective services and licensing committee unanimously backed the plans at a meeting on Tuesday, September 16.
Councillor Jan Brown (SNP, Mid Argyll) said: “I am having real difficulty visualising this. I know this area quite well and I know that part of the road is very narrow, and there are not even white lines.”
Councillor Paul Kennedy (Liberal Democrat, Helensburgh and Lomond South) added: “I am assuming there is a need for extra parking in the town. Is there a lack of other places that parking is available, and will there be a meter charge?”
Planning officer Bryn Bowker responded: “There has not been a parking need and it is fair to say, looking at local representations, that there is some concern that there is a need and in others there is none.
“It is not a significant material consideration and it is additional parking to serve the marina area.”
Councillor Gordon Blair (SNP, Cowal) then remarked: “I had a look at this site many years ago when it was being developed, and the activities of the community groups who were organising things. When I saw this application I thought it was absolutely brilliant.
“I was at Largs Marina yesterday (Monday, September 15) and when I think about how it is now, developed with appropriate car parking, and then this application, I am really quite excited.
“It is something that will really add value to the whole of Tarbert. I am not sure I would park my car there if I was going to be shopping in the village, but it is an advantage to the boating area.
“I take on board Councillor Brown’s comments about road access, but I recall the road being widened years ago to meet current standards.”
