Plans for a social housing scheme in Blairgowrie have attracted more than 100 letters of objection.
The application, which will be considered by councillors tomorrow, is for 71 affordable houses on land at Moyness Park/Blackthorn Place.
Blairgowrie and Rattray Community Council has not objected to the proposal, saying the accommodation is “much needed “ in the area.
However, a report to councillors notes there have been 103 letters of representation – all against the proposal.
Comments ranged from road safety concerns to criticism that the proportion of affordable housing is too high and some of the homes should be built for private sale.
In her report to councillors, Anne Condliffe, the council’s interim development quality manager, confirms: “The entire development is proposed as affordable housing.”
She goes on: “It is indicated that the tenures would be mixed, with 46 provided for social rent, 13 for sale through shared equity schemes and the remaining 12 for mid-market rent.”
The site is bounded to the north and east by existing residential developments, to the south by agricultural and undeveloped land and to the west by Blairgowrie Community Campus and the cemetery.
Objections include a claim that the level of housing – 44 terraced properties, 16 cottage flats, three bungalows and eight semi-detached houses – would mean over-development of the site, as well as fears about congestion and road safety.
Other concerns centre on the loss of open space, loss of trees, flood risk and the impact on local services and infrastructure, such as health and primary and secondary education.
Some people also felt a greater mix of tenures was required and that some of the homes should be available for private sale.
Despite the high level of concerns, Ms Condliffe recommends approval, saying: “The layout and design of the proposed development is considered acceptable.
“The internal layout and design of the dwellings is of a good standard.
“There is a good level of amenity for the new residents and it causes no unacceptable impact on the amenity of occupants of nearby properties.”
She also points out that the site has good accessibility to nearby services and recreational facilities.
