A Kilmarnock man who extended his back garden without permission has had his appeal thrown out.
We reported in February that Steven Craig was accused of "breathtaking arrogance" by a neighbour after he extended his back garden on to common ground on the Moorfield estate without relevant permissions.
Mr Craig applied to East Ayrshire Council for retrospective permission after adding almost 50 sq. m to his yard last year.
Council planners rejected his bid with several neighbours voicing their dismay at the so-called "land grab".
The applicant launched a bid to have the decision overturned earlier this – citing that he would be using the land to grow vegetables for the local food bank.
But East Ayrshire Council's local review body dismissed the claim and upheld the decision by local authority planners.
The statement, published last week, concluded: "Having considered the case, the East Ayrshire Council Local Review Body of March 18, 2021, determined on review to refuse planning permission."
Mr Craig added the 49.7 sq. m to his dwelling on Old Rome Drive by placing fence posts on grass behind his house with his agent, Mr Barry Lennox, claiming his client "was not aware planning permission was required as various other properties in the estate have already extended their garden in the same manner".
Planning chiefs rejected the retrospective plans in October last year because they had an "unacceptable adverse impact on the character and setting of the amenity green infrastructure/open space."
Planners also said the proposals were contrary to policy which seeks to "protect, enhance and promote green infrastructure. The proposal will encroach into, and disrupt, an established area of open space which is designated as a 'linear park' within the approved plans for the original residential development."
Two residents threw their weight behind the plans while five neighbours have objected to proposals.
Mr Allan Bowie said the blueprints were a "disgraceful land grab".
In support, Mr John Graham added: "Apart from people walking their dogs, I have not seen this ground regularly used for the 'enjoyment and relaxation of children and families'."
In defence of his application, Mr Craig said earlier this year that the space will be used to grow vegetables that will go to the local food bank.
He wrote in his appeal submitted to planners: "We would be happy to have a condition that no building except raised beds to providing local produce etc and giving back to the local community."
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