Planning

Planning Applications to January 2006
(LCT Newsletter 2006-1 Planning Applications Report)
Ron Smith

As a matter of course, West Lothian Council requests the Trust's views on applications relating to conservation areas and listed buildings in the Royal Burgh of Linlithgow. In addition, direct consultation is also received, or requested, on other development proposals affecting the town which can be considered particularly significant or contentious.

There has been comparatively little activity on the planning applications front over the past few months which is probably just as well, bearing in mind the time and effort that the Executive Committee (and many other Trust members) have devoted to the 'Vision for Linlithgow'.

The following matters are, however, worthy of note:-

• West Lothian Council granted planning permission for the introduction of a 'mezzanine' or intermediate floor to the Homebase unit at the Stockbridge Retail Park, contrary to the Trust's objections. Members will be aware of previous objections to both the principle and details of the development. Particular exception was taken to the lack of tree planting and landcaping.
• The application for the erection of a house on the garden ground at 6 Back Station Road, opposite the station entrance, was refused on appeal to the Scottish Executive. The Reporter agreed with views expressed by the Trust that the design and materials were inappropriate for the conservation area. He also felt that the proposed house would adversely affect the setting of the Union Canal.
• The Trust has objected to two signs proposed by Lothian & Borders Police - a 'totem' sign in front of the Sheriff Courthouse and a projecting sign on the police station itself, replacing the perfectly good sign above the entrance. Both of these proposed signs are reminiscent of the indiscriminate use of 'corporate' signage usually associated with retail chain stores.
• Moves seem to be afoot to demolish the former tannery behind Oliphant's bakery, and rebuild, rather than convert the old building, as previously proposed. A planning application is awaited. Although we were happy to let the conversion proposal go ahead, redevelopment of the site is likely to be resisted by the Trust as it would not only mean the loss of an important part of Linlithgow's heritage, but would cause there to be no mitigating factor for the very poor vehicular access to the site (through a pend).
• The Trust objected to a further proposal for the erection of 66 flats on the abattoir site, Braehead Road - the scheme was poorly designed and represented over-development of the site.