An Angus councillor has slammed the “nimbys” who have objected to a proposed new early learning and childcare centre in Carnoustie.
Carnoustie and District independent Brian Boyd is urging his fellow councillors to “do the right thing” and support the project when it goes before the development standards committee today.
Planning chiefs are recommending that councillors rubber stamp the application to build the turf-roofed unit which will have space for around 200 two to five year old children.
However, a number of objections have been received to the application, including some expressing concern at a perceived lack of notification about the project.
One objector said “only a few people seem aware of this project”, adding: “It appears that only a select few houses have been consulted.”
Another claimed that just five of 59 properties in McBride Drive had received notification of the plan.
Other objections centred on increased traffic volumes, road safety, and “concern for pollution and smell from proposed nursery.”
An impression of the wildlife-friendly roof.
Mr Boyd said: “A number of us have been fighting to get this unit for more than five years now, and it is superb to see it get to this stage.
“I’m disappointed by nimbys who have come forward with what many would call petty complaints, but we have to look at the bigger picture.
“The fact is that we desperately need this facility, and the whole thing has been well thought out.”
“I know there has been some debate about the location, but for demographic reasons alone, it needs to be in this location, especially with the prospect of 300 houses being built at the west side of town.”
Planners acknowledge that granting permission for the building has potential implications for neighbours in terms of “alleged interference with privacy, home or family life and peaceful enjoyment of their possessions”.
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However, they say it is “considered that any actual or apprehended infringement of such convention rights is justified.”
The bulk of the accommodation would be located on the ground floor of the proposed building.
External finishes include a mix of sedum green roofing, intended to encourage wildlife to the area.
