A developer has won an appeal against Fife Council’s decision to throw out plans for a newbuild home in a St Andrews conservation area.
Earlier this year, North East Planning Committee rejected a proposal for a flat-roofed modern home on the site between Hepburn Hall and Lade Braes Walk, which was previously owned by St Andrews University.
Hepburn Gardens Area Residents’ Association were among those who had objected, raising concerns about impact on the conservation area and wildlife.
However, following an appeal by the developer, a Scottish Government reporter has overturned the councillors’ decision.
“There are no material considerations which would still justify refusing to grant planning permission,” said Scottish Government reporter Christopher Warren in his decision notice.
Councillors had opposed the proposal for the four-bedroom property on grounds including loss of trees and the impact of creating a new opening on a C-listed boundary wall at the site.
Mr Warren said: “I do not consider this proposed new opening would detract from the setting of Hepburn Hall. There is an intervening modern student accommodation building which creates a substantial break in the wall.”
He added within the conservation area there are properties with “a range of architectural styles” and the newbuild home would cause “no discernible impact upon the character and appearance of this part of the conservation area”.
The reporter said “important” trees on the site would be protected, adding: “The trees to be removed are not of any notable individual value and their loss would not affect the integrity of the wider group of trees.”
In response to concerns about access to the site, the reporter said no alterations would be necessary at the junction where the private driveway meets Hepburn Gardens.
George McLeod, who lodged the plans, said he was “overjoyed” by the reporter’s decision.
“We’re looking to do this sympathetically, and create a building which is in keeping with the landscape,” he said.
