CONTROVERSIAL plans to build a house in West Linton's conservation area look set to be given the green light - despite local outrage, writes Martin Macdonald.

Council planning officers have recommended that permission be granted to Roger Brown for a dwelling featuring stone and wood cladding.

The proposals are for a residential building erected within the northern corner of the Lower Green, which falls within the strict planning criteria surrounding conservation areas.

The two-storey proposal has polarised opinion within the local community.

Planning chiefs have received 21 objections from 17 separate households.

Concerns about the aesthetic impact and loss of privacy feature prominently in complaints.

Despite the misgivings, planning officer Dorothy Amyes feels that the proposed design will have a positive impact.

She said: "In this instance, it is considered that this is a well thought through design which will enhance rather than detract from the appearance of the conservation area."

The application has also garnered 11 letters of support from 10 households, with the proposed use of sustainable materials and bold design being praised.

A recent vote on the proposal by the West Linton Community Council mirrored the divisions within the local community.

Members voted four-to-three to reject supporting the application.

With the council planning officer recommending approval of the proposal, the final decision now rests with the Scottish Borders Council Planning and Building Standards Committee, which meets on Monday morning.

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