A PLANNING application has been submitted to build 10 new bungalows on the School Brae site in West Linton.

The proposals show there would be a mixture of two and three-bedroom semi-detached and detached homes on the site – and they would be made to suit older residents.

The plot would replace the former West Linton Primary School, which was built in 1907 and closed in 2013.

Architects Morgan McDonnell stated: “The design concept envisages a sustainable new cluster of single-storey two-bed and three-bed dwellings for the over 55s.

“The market group targeted in this way are typically couples looking for a new home to enjoy their current or approaching retirement – often downsizing after their children have left home for university or careers, and therefore seeking smaller, more efficient and more manageable accommodation, with low maintenance and running costs.

“As bungalows, the houses contain all accommodation on one accessible level and so are ideally suited and, if required, easily adaptable, to meet the changing needs of those for whom this will be their last house purchase and wish to consider how their circumstances may change over their remaining years.

“The Borders is understood to be an area with strong family identities, histories and connections, and it is common for people to return to the place of their birth and early life when looking to retire after years away for work and career development.”

The proposed spot, which sits just outside the village conservation area, would see a cul-de-sac built and each plot would be given two parking spaces each.

There would also be two visitor spaces created for the street.

The architects also stated: “The development accommodates private and visitor parking in accordance with the council’s policy.

“Traffic movements associated with residential use will be far fewer than those when the school was in use.

“The houses have been developed as exemplar sustainable homes and exceed current building standards for energy efficiency and noise insulation, and therefore easily meet the council’s core objectives for sustainable development.”