PLANS have been revealed for a moveable sauna to be situated in a small village on the Kintyre Peninsula.
Niall Macalister Hall has submitted the application to Argyll and Bute Council for planning permission for beach land south of Sore Cottage Bothy in Torrisdale.
The application also wishes to close off an existing private access route to the B842 road and create a new, improved access route.
The council’s planning officers are expected to rule on the application by early December, with the public now able to view plans and submit feedback.
A design and access statement by planning agents MBS Architecture said: “This proposal will provide one additional part-time job role, thereby encouraging the local economy within the area.
“The proposed development would contribute positively to the local economy by enhancing the existing holiday accommodation facilities at Torrisdale Castle.
“It would also support and encourage increased visitor activity to nearby local attractions, including Gin Distillery School and estate cafe, thereby benefiting the wider tourism economy in the area.
“The proposed sauna would provide a valuable community wellbeing and recreational facility, promoting physical and mental health through accessible outdoor wellness experiences.
“The development would enhance local leisure provision for residents and visitors alike, encourage year-round use of the shoreline area, and support the wider local tourism economy.
“In addition, the sauna would create a shared social space that encourages community interaction and outdoor activity in a sustainable and low-impact manner.”
The statement added: “The proposal contributing positively to community wellbeing and encouraging greater use of the local coastal environment throughout the year which fits with the Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership vision ‘to enable people to live longer, healthier, happier, and independent lives’.
“It would minimise the need of local people (Torrisdale, Carradale, Saddell, Peninver) to travel to further away (e.g. Oban, Tarbert) to access similar facilities.
“The proposed sauna is not expected to have any significant negative impact on existing organisations or businesses in the area.”
To view the plans and submit feedback, visit the council’s planning portal at argyll-bute.gov.uk and use the reference number 26/01532/PP.
