An application to convert an agricultural building in Angus into a wedding venue has been withdrawn.
The Muirdrum Farm plans suggested there would be live or pre-recorded music in the evenings with space for up to 180 guests.
Agent Alastair Fitchet said the Carnoustie venue would also have been put to a number of uses throughout the year, including corporate functions.
He said it would be “relatively quiet at the venue” during the afternoon but there would likely be “live or pre-recorded music played inside the venue” in the evening.
The agricultural building which was at the centre of the plan is located 75 metres from Muirdrum Farmhouse and at least 165 metres from the next residential property.
The applicant’s agent suggested Carnoustie would benefit from “a significant amount of secondary spend” associated with events “meaning the venue would be a great boost to the local economy, and the local employment market”.
The application has now been withdrawn in the wake of objections from neighbours, Angus Council’s environmental health department and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa).
Martin Petrie, environmental health officer, said he could not support the application until the noise had been assessed by a qualified consultant.
He said: “I note there have been two objections both citing noise amongst other things and I do share some concerns with regard to noise.
“These types of venues have in the past led to noise complaints, mainly through music noise particularly as events will often go on until 1am.
“Whilst I recognise that the background noise level here is relatively high due to the proximity of the A92, it will not obscure all noise, particularly late at night.
“My concerns regarding this site are compounded by the fact it is not a bespoke building for this proposal, rather it is an existing metal sheet agricultural building which are not designed to mitigate noise particularly well.
“I recognise that the applicant has stated some insulation could be added, but I am not fully convinced that the required noise levels could be attained.
“Part of the reason for this is the plans show a bar, which implies the intention is to licence this venue.
“Angus Council licensing board policy is that noise from all licensed premise should be inaudible in adjacent residential properties after 11pm which is a fairly strict condition to be met.”
Sepa also submitted a letter of objection to the plans “on the grounds of lack of information on drainage”.
Residents who objected to the plans highlighted the limited access to Muidrum and raised concerns over additional impact on the road system.
One said: “The venue would also create other issues, namely noise, not just for those in close proximity to the planned event area.
“Such numbers as already stated leaving on mass would disturb almost every house in the village.
“When you add in the fact that the venue will be licensed you can appreciate noise levels would be quite loud and disturbing well after midnight.”
