A BID to build two cottages in a Peeblesshire village which would have required the felling of a number of mature trees has been withdrawn after neighbours raised deep concerns over the potential impact on the natural habitat of the area.
Glasgow-based Intizar Hussain had submitted a planning application to Scottish Borders Council to build Cherry Blossom Cottage and Apple Blossom Cottage, proposed six and four bedroom properties respectively, on a woodland site east of Medwyn Lodge in Medwyn Road at West Linton.
But the application raised the hackles of neighbours with regard to loss of privacy, inadequate drainage, design issues and the heights of the proposed properties.
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There was particular concern that the developments would require removal of a number of mature deciduous trees, with claims that would destroy the natural habitat of native wildlife regularly observed in the woodland.
One of the opponents, Ann Cumber, of Medwyn Road, said: “The current use of this site is as a mature woodland. The development as proposed would necessitate the removal of all of the existing trees with subsequent loss of habitat. This would also be a significant loss to the mature tree-lined nature character to Medwyn Road. It appears that the plans have been thrown together without regard to this.”
The concerns led to planning officer Ranald Dods advising that the application be withdrawn.
He said: “The trees which are on the site, although not covered by a tree preservation order, do add significantly to the amenity of the area.”
In response, Alastair Hood, director of Livingston-based AFH Consulting and Engineering Ltd, agents for the applicant, said: “After speaking to my client I have been advised to notify you that it’s the client’s wish to withdraw the application at this point in time.”
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