COUNCILLORS Delay Decision On Gourock Self-Build Housing Plots

INVERCLYDE councillors have put off a decision over plans for a self-build residential development in the Trumpethill area of upper Gourock.

Inverdunning (Gourock) Ltd have applied for planning consent in principle for housing on land next to 24 Rosemount Place, near Gourock Golf Course.

Six house plots are proposed for the site which currently contains a bungalow with extensive garden grounds. The bungalow would be refurbished.

Inverclyde planning officers had recommending that councillors approve the application but Inverclyde Planning Board voted 6:4 to visit the site so councillors can view the land and access roads.

Nearly 50 objections have been received by the council, raising concerns about increased traffic, road safety, the impact on wildlife and habitat, loss of a recreational area. Nearly 40 expressions of support were also received.

A report by the planning department states: “The proposed development is in a sustainable location and strongly accords with national and local policies that direct development to existing urban areas in the first instance before green belt sites.

“The principle of the proposed development is considered to be compatible with the surrounding area in terms of layout, density, size of plots, distance from and relationship to neighbouring properties.

“The impact of the development on the surrounding area in terms of other matters such as traffic generation, infrastructure and potential flooding is also considered to be acceptable.”

If the proposal is approved, permission would still need to be obtained for any detailed designs drawn up.

A document submitted with the application explains: “The property at 24 Rosemount Place in Gourock was put on the open market by Savills in the summer of 2019 as an open market sale.

“Inverdunning Ltd were successful in their bid, having considered the site an ideal opportunity to redevelop the existing house and grounds.

“Inverdunning considered initially a small private development for sale, however, having considered the local housing demands and market, the application proposes a small development of self-build plots to meet this ever increasing approach to residential development.”

The statement continues: “Each house will be a bespoke design to suit individual plotholders and the setting of the unique sites on offer at Rosemount Place.”