Monday September 11th 2023
Modern housing plans for Eskbank eyesore site has split opinion.
The design of three proposed houses on an eyesore site on the edge of Eskbank has split community leaders concerned over its ‘industrial’ style.
Plans to build the houses next to Glenesk Colliery, on the B6392 leading up to the Justinlees roundabout, were welcomed by Eskbank and Newbattle Community Council who described the land as an eyesore.
However members were unable to agree on the modern design for the new builds.
A report to Midlothian Council’s planning committee describes the homes as “two storeys in height with integral garages and of contemporary design, with flat roofs and large areas of glazing.
“The external wall materials are proposed to include sandstone, zinc and pine cladding and the roof is to be finished with a rubber membrane.”
Planning officers are recommending the committee refuse permission for the housing after raising concerns about the impact on trees and wildlife on the land.
Their report says of the community council’s response: “The proposed houses are of an unusual modern design.
“While there is general agreement that the houses are distinctive, there is not agreement within the community council on their suitability for this conservation area.
“They defer to Midlothian’s planners to make recommendations on this.”
Officers recommended the plans are refused despite a similar proposal winning an appeal to the council’s Local Review Body in 2019.
They said the 2019 plans had now expired and the new application had been called in by local ward councillor Stuart McKenzie.
They said: “Councillor McKenzie has called this planning application in due to access to and from the site being on busy road with a blind bend and dual white lines. He raises concerns about road safety and site access.”
They are recommending councillors refuse the proposal, on the grounds of road safety concerns, impact on the local landscape and loss of trees.
They add the developer is unwilling to provide any contributions towards the impact the new houses will have on the local infrastructure.
You can read the report submitted to the Midlothian Council Planning Meeting HERE.
The site next to the former Glenesk Colliery on the B6392 leading up to the Justinlees roundabout.
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