A controversial plan which objectors claimed would spoil the romantic setting of a Perthshire folly has been rejected.
The Tay Landscape Partnership had applied to build three stone plinths with interpretation panels in a semi-circle close to the B-listed Kinnoull Tower which overlooks the River Tay from the top of Kinnoull Hill.
The main thrust of the objections was that the close proximity of the plinths to the 18th century structure would spoil the visitor experience.
A council officer has refused the application under delegated powers due to the number of signs and their “inappropriate siting”.
“The proposal, by virtue of its inappropriate siting and design, would have an adverse impact on the setting of the adjacent listed building,” it was concluded.
The application caused a storm of protest from objectors who feared – while well-intentioned – it would detract from the experience of visitors.
The tower, which is a landmark to motorists travelling along the Carse of Gowrie, is one of Perthshire’s most photographed structures.
A large number of objections were lodged with the council, including one from its own conservation officer.
Typical was the letter from Marie Morris who said: “The proposed signage is totally unsympathetic to the natural area, and will completely ruin the aesthetics of the tower itself, and its immediate surroundings.
“The tower is an iconic attraction for many people, tourists and locals alike.
“Perth and Kinross Council have a duty to ensure the sustainability of this attraction for future generations to enjoy, not allow it to become forever devalued by tacky, unsightly and wholly inappropriate signage.
“I am sure that there are, as others have already commented, more appropriate areas for the information signage to be sited.”
Another objector, Norman Renfrew of Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park Group welcomed the decision saying: “For many years the public have made it clear that Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park should be a place of natural beauty with the absolute minimum of ‘made items’ whether they be seats, bins or signs.”
The Tay Landscape Partnership say they will now discuss their options in conjunction with the landowners.
