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Planned new Dornoch housing scheme faces opposition with neighbours claiming new homes will 'tower over' their properties


By Caroline McMorran

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A PLAN to build 12 affordable new homes in Dornoch is running into some opposition.

Three objections have been lodged to Highland Council’s application to erect housing units on a 0.4 hectare "gap site" at Croft Pedde Court, Bishopfield.

There would be a mixture of “one, two and three bedroomed bungalows, villas and flats with associated parking and services”.

An artist's impression of the planned new Croft Pedde Court scheme at Bishopfield, Dornoch.
An artist's impression of the planned new Croft Pedde Court scheme at Bishopfield, Dornoch.

A design statement reads: “The land is owned by Highland Council and part of the site has been successfully developed already for 22 affordable homes.

“The consent also included 12 plots - six of these have been transferred to the community and are marketed for sale for community funds.

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“The remaining land is the subject of this application to complete the development and provide further much needed affordable housing.”

However, residents in nearby Elizabeth Crescent have expressed their dismay at the proposal, citing the loss of green space and their concerns that the new buildings would look down over their homes.

Morven Urquhart told planners that the two-storey units would “tower over” her home, reducing her privacy and blocking out natural light.

She called for a site meeting to discuss “difference in the levels of the land”.

Joyce (Johan) Everitt wrote to planners: “I wish to register the strongest possible objection .... such buildings would seriously affect my privacy and light would be intrusive.”

She added: “It is stated on the planning document that the scale of the proposal reflects that of the neighbouring buildings, but I would dispute that. Also stated is the fact that there are two storey homes in Elizabeth Crescent, which is not the case.”

Another objector, E S Dawson said the dwellings would overlook her property.

The planned development was discussed at the November meeting of Dornoch Community Council.

Its minutes read: “Patrick Murray (chairman) requested that an extension be asked for, but Jerry Bishop (treasurer) recommended seeking a consultation on this application and that was the decision of the meeting.”


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