The developer aiming to end West Lothian’s housing problem by building nearly 2000 new homes may have issues securing planning permission.
It was revealed this week that developers had submitted planning permission to West Lothian Council for the new £275 million estate.
However, the land east of Livingston, where Amber REI (Agriculture) plan to build 1800 new homes has not been marked for residential development on West Lothian Council’s development plan.
Speaking to The Courier this week, a West Lothian Council spokesperson said: “An application has been received for planning permission in principle for a 108ha development including residential accommodation on the site of Clapperton Farm, to the east of Livingston.
“The site in question is not allocated for residential development in the West Lothian Local Development Plan.
“The application will be assessed and taken through the normal planning process for an application of its type which includes taking account of public and consultee comments.
“A decision will follow in due course.”
When land is not allocated for residential the council’s planners don’t think it is the right location for housing.
A council source explained to The Courier that is such instances it is “likely to make it harder for the developers to get permission for their development.”
The process is now expected to take some time and eventually to go to the Development Management Committee for a decision by councillors in the future.
The council’s local development plan sets out what they think are acceptable uses for areas, including housing, retail, greenbelt and employment.
Two applications for planning permission in principle (PPiP) have been submitted to West Lothian Council, aiming to establish the principle of development of the Drumshoreland Garden Community on the site.
Amber REI say positive initial discussions have already been held with a registered social landlord, Almond Housing Association, with respect to the early planning and ultimate delivery of affordable housing, as well as with Veterans Housing Scotland for some veteran housing on the site.
Meanwhile, concerned residents launched a petition last year after learning of the planned new development.
It can be viewed here: https://www.change.org/p/west-lothian-council-lets-stop-this-development
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