Plans to transform farmland at Auchterarder into a major housing development could be given the green light.
Robertson Homes wants to use land at Townhead Farm to build 143 properties and its bid has been backed by planning chiefs.
The site is part of the Auchterarder Expansion Development Framework and will include 30 affordable flats.
A design statement for the scheme states: “The housing proposed for the development spans the range from two-bedroom apartments, two and three-bedroom mews, terraced villas, semi-detached and detached properties.
“In terms of height, the properties vary from one-and-a-half to three-storey. The layout design integrates cycleway/pedestrian connections to provide access to surrounding communities and to provide safe access to community facilities, for example, schools.
“The local access road through the development shall be capable of accommodating local development traffic.”
A new mini roundabout will be formed at the site entrance and a play area will also be created, alongside landscaping, planting, a SUDS pond and footpaths linking to the existing network.
The plans have been described as being in “three character zones”, ranging from high to low densities. The area nearest to Auchterarder will have an “urban theme”, while the second zone will feature an “open space boulevard” and the third will be of the lowest density.
Perth and Kinross Council’s development quality manager, Nick Brian, has recommended the proposals for approval.
He said: “The principle of providing housing on the allocated site at Townhead is established and it will contribute significantly towards the housing supply for the Strathearn area.
“The design and layout of housing is in accordance with the recommendations set out in the masterplan and will provide good-quality housing, including affordable housing.
“The impact of the proposal on existing infrastructure has been accommodated through the local planning process and contributions towards improvements to roads infrastructure, affordable housing, sports and open space provision, education and community facilities will be secured.
“The proposal will not have any adverse impact on the natural or built heritage of the area or the character and appearance of Auchterarder.”
Although it has been warmly welcomed by the council, concerns have been raised about the plan. Two letters of representation were submitted, highlighting a number of issues, including claims it will overlook an existing neighbouring property, the effect it will have on other buildings and maintaining access to existing properties.
In the report, which will go before members of the council’s development management committee on Wednesday, Mr Brian gave assurances there would be “no adverse impact”. He added: “Concern was raised by neighbours about access for maintenance and the effect of building work on property; however, these are not strictly material planning considerations, with the latter issue being considered through the building warrant process.
“It is considered that there will be no adverse impact on any neighbouring property as a result of the development.
“Play area provision within the site, along with the easy pedestrian access to the town’s existing recreational facilities and the wider countryside, allows sufficient access in terms of recreational amenity.”
If Robertson Homes’ proposal is approved by councillors, the company has confirmed it will build at a rate of around 20 properties per year, so the development should be completed by 2021.