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Controversial polytunnel development requires planning permission

David Mackay with the field that is planned for the tunnels.
David Mackay with the field that is planned for the tunnels.

Angus Council has told Geddes Farms the installation of 50 acres of polytunnels in a rural field will require planning permission.

The local authority said the polytunnels as proposed “do not constitute permitted development” and has now written to Geddes Farms advising them of this.

They have been given seven days to respond with their proposed course of action but the firm said it would be “inappropriate” to comment when approached by The Courier.

A spokesperson for Angus Council said: “Parties concerned have been advised that having regard to previous case law regarding size, fixing method and permanence, it has been concluded the erection of polytunnels in the manner proposed would constitute operational development.

“The polytunnels as proposed do not constitute permitted development in terms of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (Scotland) Order 1992 (as amended) and would therefore require planning permission.”

Residents at the former estate known as Redcastle Farm at Lunan Bay first became aware of the development when they noticed heavy goods vehicles transporting polytunnel frames over the private farm road.

David Mackay, who owns one of the eight properties, approached Angus Council for clarity over whether the change on the site was a permitted development or if planning permission is required.

He said: “At least, if there is an application we can now have a lawful avenue of objection.

“I would like to think the fight might be an easy one for a number of safety issues which do not apply to the more suitable adjacent fields.

“The field inclines upwards and the way the proposed strawberry dreels are being ploughed, the polytunnels will be viewed by us end on.

“If there is a prospect of heavy rain, all water will run down the hill toward us, increasing the risk of flooding and property damage.

“Also, the area is very exposed and prone to strong winds and I am concerned that parts of the heavy structure could be blown onto our homes.

“I am also concerned about lack of privacy and noise from the workers during the long picking season.”

A Geddes Farms spokesman said: “It would be inappropriate for us to comment at this time.

“We are in the process of responding on this matter within the seven-day period given by Angus Council.”