It appears the developers behind controversial plans for Pitlochry have gone back to the drawing board.
A report issued by Architecture and Design Scotland (A+DS), an executive NDPB (non-departmental public body) of the Scottish Government, revealed that it has been privy to revised proposals.
During a design review meeting held in Glasgow two months ago and as part of an informal workshop, Archial Architects took a second look at its ideas for the Victorian town, created on behalf of Upland Developments.
These alterations have now won the backing of A+DS as they have gone some way to resolving several issues raised by the organisation in April following an initial inspection of the development on Atholl Street.
”We are very much encouraged by the way in which the designs are continuing to develop in light of our comments and feel that the current scheme has the potential to positively enhance the centre of Pitlochry,” the report states.
”Benefits of the current approach could include improved streetscape, permeability of the site towards the north-east and the creation of an interesting secondary pedestrian route, which is animated by commercial uses adjacent to existing landscape features.
”We would suggest that the outcome could be improved amenity which also benefits the town’s commercial activity.”
While A+DS has called for further reviews of the amended design, it has welcomed the fact that use of the Moulin Burn will be ”maximised” and the much-loved view of the distinctive tower of the Church of Scotland will be retained.
According to the report, however, there are still issues with plans for a hotel on site, with the organisation saying it remains ”unconvinced” by existing sketches, calling them ”less developed” than proposals for the commercial and residential areas.
Experts have advised Archial Architects that they ”recognise the potential for an interesting solution” and urge the firm to draw inspiration from the site as it currently exists.
In conclusion, A+DS stated: ”We are supportive of the designs as they continue to develop and we feel that the revised approach in these latter stages of development has led to a much more satisfactory scheme which has the potential to positively enhance Pitlochry town centre.
”However, it is imperative that a project of the highest quality is delivered for this significant site and there are some aspects of the buildings and spaces around them that we suggest could be improved.
”We look forward to further consideration being given to the hotel development in particular and its relationship to the existing High Street. The way in which the hierarchy of spaces across the site is developed through high quality landscape is critical.”
Among the improvements A+DS has indicated it would like to see are encouraging biodiversity, resolving flooding issues, more details on the removal and replacement of trees and control of servicing.
It has also called for a ”softening” of proposed architecture and a more in-depth analysis of the existing buildings in the town and topography of the site.
Jim Tyrrell, chairman of the Pitlochry Conservation Society, who have led the campaign against the proposals by Aviemore-based Upland Developments, told The Courier that he feels this report offers a ”glimmer of hope” for residents.
He said: ”This a clear indication that we have been on the right track from the beginning. Even though A+DS does not mention our schemes, it is probable that the changes are based on, or are influenced by, our work.
”Archial Architects’ workshop topographical recommendations to A+DS in April and May bear a striking resemblances to the Mackintosh School Of Architecture presentation of September last year (link).”