The developer behind controversial new homes in the Fife village of Star has said it aims to leave a “positive legacy”.
Thirty six people objected to Campion Homes’ plans to build 29 new houses on a field at the west end of the village.
But council planners said the proposal was acceptable because the site was earmarked for housing under the local development plan.
Campion maintains objections raised by residents were addressed in the report to councillors on Central and West Planning Committee, who approved the plans.
But local resident Jim Currie, 68, said: “The feeling for most in the village is of resignation.
“We’re not nimby, we’re just a little village which has nothing in it so we’re thinking why do they need to build executive homes?
“The main thing which is going to affect us is the fact the road outside our home is very narrow. A truck and a bus couldn’t pass at the moment.”
Mr Currie also questioned the developer’s £49,300 contribution to affordable housing, adding: “That’s not going to build much in the way of affordable housing.”
The plans were approved with conditions including a £8,352 contribution to transport infrastructure, £29,000 for new children’s play equipment and £47,589 towards increasing capacity at Auchmuty High School.
As part of the development, a gap in the pavement along Main Street will be turned into a walkway to increase safety for primary school children.
A raised crossing over Main Street will also be built.
A spokesman for Campion Homes said: “At Campion Homes Limited, we pride ourselves in delivering high quality new homes that complement the existing towns and villages within which they are located.
“Our team has worked with Fife Council and community representatives to design a development that fully meets current policy expectations. We have also ensured Fife Council’s own vision for this site can be delivered following allocation of the site within the council’s development plan in 2014.
“Associated with this development, Campion Homes Limited is required to make a series of financial contributions to assist Fife Council deliver services in the local area. Those contributions total £134,000. In addition Campion Homes Limited will deliver new energy efficient bungalows and one and a half storey homes that are in high demand across Fife.
“We are looking to work with Fife Council and adjacent landowners to identify a solution to the existing flood issue that affects the main street through Star. The development will also deliver a safe route to and from Star primary school for the whole of the west end of Star.
“While we are aware of concerns raised by some residents of Star, we believe that the council’s committee report addresses these succinctly. We will work with the community to minimise any impacts during the construction works and we aim to leave a positive legacy through this development.”
