Housebuilder Cala has unveiled detailed plans for a controversial development in Aberdour.
Cala is pressing ahead with a proposal to build 85 new homes on a field at the eastern edge of the village and has submitted a detailed proposal to Fife Council.
The project has been unpopular with villagers from the outset, with the site in question ruled out for development by councillors in the preparation of the local development plan.
More than 850 objections were received by the council in response to Cala’s application for planning permission in principle, which was rejected by councillors but eventually approved by a Scottish Government reporter at appeal.
Iain Fleming, who chairs Aberdour Community Council, said the community council is now liaising with Cala with the aim of “minimising the impact of the construction” and identifying ways the village could benefit through planning obligations.
Residents have highlighted concerns about the A921 at the proposed entrance to the site, which they say is already a bottleneck for traffic.
“Anyone who passes through Aberdour on a regular basis will understand the issues of congestion that the ancient layout of the place brings,” said Mr Fleming.
“We are aware of plans for significant development in communities to the east of the village in Burntisland, Kinghorn and beyond. This will all have significant impact on traffic flow through the village.
“These developments will also have a significant impact on the primary access for this Cala development, already a busy main road.”
It is understood work on site will not start until the later part of next year.
Cala said a quarter of the homes built at the site south of Main Street would be affordable housing and there would be “extensive” areas of open space in keeping with the rural setting.
Steven Cooper, planning manager at Cala Homes (East), said: “We have been working hard to ensure that the proposal meets the various requirements of the existing planning permission.
“We are confident that what we are putting forward is a sensitively designed development that will fully reflect its location on the fringes of Aberdour.
“The proposal will provide a variety of new homes, ranging from two bedroom cottage flats, three bedroom terrace, three bedroom semi-detached, and four and five bedroom detached homes, with the ability to accommodate home working. The homes shall also include solar panels to achieve up to A rating.
“The site is exceptionally well connected, with bus stops and the railway station within a short walk, and the local primary school also in close proximity.
“We have been inundated with enquiries, including local residents, about the new homes from those looking to secure a new home in Aberdour.”
Cala said as part of the proposal, there would be a financial contribution towards Aberdour Primary School.
