PLANS for eight new homes to be built at Lochgair have been awarded permission – on a council committee vice-chair’s casting vote.
MacLeod Construction Ltd’s proposal for the site east of Knock Farmhouse attracted 35 objections from the public along with six representations.
Councillors sought to stage a pre-determination public hearing, but a roll call vote among an Argyll and Bute Council committee ended in deadlock.
Councillor Kieron Green (Independent, Oban North and Lorn) was chairing the meeting as vice-chair, with chair Councillor Gordon Blair (SNP, Cowal) having submitted apologies.
As Councillor Green voted in favour of the recommendation to grant planning permission, it was awarded on his casting vote.
Councillor Douglas Philand (Independent, Mid Argyll) had requested a pre-determination hearing, but left the meeting having declared an interest and did not take part in the roll call vote.
The council’s planning, protective services and licensing committee met on Wednesday, December 17.
Planning officer Peter Bain said: “The report does not recommend a hearing in this instance, because the site is earmarked specifically for housing development in the Local Development Plan.
“The issues raised were also raised in the Local Development Plan 2 consultation and were considered in the examination. It was determined that it should remain in the plan as a housing allocation.
“The matter for members would be to consider the elements that were not considered through the development plan process. The council has already expressed a desire to see a housing development in this location.”
Councillor Paul Kennedy (Liberal Democrat, Helensburgh and Lomond South) said: “I think the local population deserve to have a say, and I note Councillor Philand suggested a hearing.”
Councillor Green responded: “Personally I am of the view that I would be happy to move the recommendations in the report.”
Councillor Kennedy then moved an amendment to hold a pre-determination hearing, which was seconded by Councillor Graham Hardie (Liberal Democrat, Helensburgh Central). Councillor Peter Wallace (Conservative, Isle of Bute) seconded Councillor Green’s motion.
A roll call vote resulted in four votes each, with planning permission awarded on Councillor Green’s casting vote.
