The application related to the erection of four two-storey, four bed dwellinghouses with accommodation in the roof, with associated parking, boundary treatment, and landscaping with vehicular access from Alness Road, following demolition of existing tennis club house.

In addition to the report submitted officers reported that the applicant had submitted an environmental statement that referred to the glazing and insulation to be used on the development and the inclusion of a charging point for electric vehicles. Trees on the site would be retained with the planting of two additional heavy trees and a hedge to the front of the site.

No objectors to the application were in attendance.

The applicant addressed the Committee and provided background information relating to the decline of the tennis facilities and the tennis club decision to sell the site due in part to a decline in the number of members at the club. The site is currently derelict and is an eyesore and the proposed development will have a positive impact on the site and surrounding area and will include additional planting to provide more habitat for wildlife. The applicant explained that in view of the loss of the sports provision (tennis) an agreement had been reached to provide a Section 106 contribution that will improve the tennis facilities located in Alexandra Park.

The Committee commented on the application, in particular the design and scale which was in keeping with the surrounding area. Reference was also made to the Section 106 contribution and how this would be used. Officers explained that the contribution would cover the cost of key pads to access tennis courts at Alexandra Park, which is run by the Council and is available to use by the public. The Committee was informed that the Section 106 policy required the council to consider the leisure related facility that would be affected and to determine how the contribution is used. In this case the activity was tennis and the contribution will be used to improve the existing tennis facilities in the area.

Decision

To approve the application subject to the conditions and reasons set out in the report.

(Councillor Watson declared a prejudicial interest in respect of the application and left the meeting during consideration of the application.)