Campaigners are celebrating after planning permission for a controversial development on the banks of Loch Long was unanimously rejected by councillors.
During a seven-and-a-half hour long meeting, councillors refused the proposal for 12 new homes in the tiny hamlet of Portincaple - despite planning officials recommending that the proposals were given the green-light.
A motion submitted by independent councillor George Freeman, stating that the plans were out of character in a sensitive area, was agreed unanimously by the council’s planning, protective services and licensing committee last week.
More than 3000 objections were lodged about the plans prior to the meeting, with local resident Christine Pratt telling the Lennox last year that they would make Portincaple uninhabitable.
Speaking after the decision, a relieved Christine said: “This planning application, and the manner of application, has caused untold distress to many Portincaple residents, and the wider community since November 2017 and taken up enormous resources in time, effort and personal cost.
“I am so pleased to be able to say that our campaigners, politicians, councillors and the hearing committee did Portincaple, our community and Scotland proud by upholding the tenets of the local development plan and legislation.
“It is a cause for celebration.”
The decision was also welcomed by Green MSP Ross Greer, who spoke on behalf of residents at the meeting.
He said: “Building here would have threatened a big section of Atlantic rainforest and local wildlife.
“Once changes like those are made, they’re irreversible.
“I know that the architects are enthusiastic about using renewable energy and developing energy efficient housing and I hope that they will find more appropriate locations for these constructive ideas.”
Labour MSP Jackie Baillie, who also campaigned against the development, added: “This development would have altered the character of the local community.
“Well done to the local people who pulled together to oppose these plans.
“This has been a difficult process for them, not helped by the disruptive nature of the ongoing pandemic.
“Their hard work and commitment has paid off.”
Developer Pelham Olive meanwhile paid tribute to Argyll and Bute Council, despite the refusal.
He said: “The council is to be congratulated on the way they set up and managed the virtual process, given the unprecedented level of interest shown in this planning application.
“While I was naturally disappointed with the refusal, I was encouraged by the amount of positive support expressed for the woodland regeneration and exceptional green credentials of the proposed development.
“I will be reviewing the councillors’ comments and their reasons for refusal over the coming weeks.”
