Scotland’s top environmental body has withdrawn its objection to plans for this summer’s T in the Park.
As exclusively revealed by The Courier, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) had listed several issues they wanted addressed, including possible flooding on the planned campsite.
Sepa now say there is no flood risk to the camping areas at the proposed site at Strathallan Castle Estate.
The environmental watchdog had previously pointed out they felt the chance of high rain fall “may place” revellers at flood risk.
It highlighted two serious flash floods that had been recorded in the Strathearn area near the proposed festival site and had warned that these could result in a “rapid river rise”.
It also stressed that “limited prior” warning can be provided due to the localised nature of such storms.
T in the Park has since assured Sepa their concerns will be addressed and the objection has now been withdrawn, primarily based on T in the Park removing all camping areas from the flood plain.
Festival organisers have also confirmed the road crossing at the ornamental lake in Strathallan Castle Estate will not be used for foot traffic during the event and are to provide detailed drawings of the permanent crossings.
But Sepa has asked T in the Park to create a flood warning and evacuation plan prior to the start of the festival taking place if planning consent is granted.
A Sepa spokesman said: “Under the Flood Risk Management Act, Sepa have a responsibility to highlight areas which are potentially prone to flooding under the statutory planning process.
“In the case of Strathallan Castle estate, the land on which camping had been designated was previously within a functional flood plain and was therefore at risk of flooding during periods of stormy or prolonged rainfall. As the camping areas have now been moved outwith the flood plain, Sepa can remove the objection.”
A T in the Park spokesman added: “The consultation process is robust and thorough and we always knew there would be some conditions set out by the statutory consultees before the final decision is made.”
Perth and Kinross Council will rule on planning permission later this year.