The first homes to transform a site blighted by fly-tipping into a housing estate are expected to be given the green light.
Some 230 houses are in the pipeline for the former auction mart at East Huntingtower on the edge of Perth, with the first 43 tipped for approval at a Perth and Kinross council planning meeting.
Councillors will consider the first phase of five in the proposed development by EMA Architecture and Design at the planning and development management committee on Wednesday.
Planning permission in principle to replace Perth Agricultural Centre, off Crieff Road, was agreed in January 2017.
When the livestock mart closed the site was earmarked for a multi-million- pound Sainsbury’s store but this plan foundered and in recent years it has been blighted by fly-tipping.
Since 2004, planning permission has been requested for various developments on the site, including a gym, hotel and petrol station.
A report by development quality manager Anne Condliffe said: “This development would represent the first phase of residential development at the former auction site, East Huntingtower, following in-principle permission being issued in January 2017.
“The proposal fully accords with national guidance and development policy in relation to residential development on an urban brownfield site.
“The proposal is acceptable in terms of its design, density, siting and landscape impact and can be satisfactorily accessed, together with the implementation of junction improvements on the A85/A9 junction.”
Concerns have been raised the area is considered “highly archaeologically sensitive” and the report called for developers to determine if important remains are on the site before building begins. If so, excavations may be required.
It said: “It is worth noting the close proximity of the Battle of Tippermuir south of the proposed site. The battle, fought in 1644, was the first victory for Montrose in the Charles I campaign and is of national importance.
“There is a need to assess the character, condition and significance of the archaeological deposits presumed to be present and the extent to which the development will impact upon them.”
If planning permission is granted, a number of conditions will be imposed including the creation of a traffic waste and environmental plan during construction.
The proposal also includes affordable housing, a play park and sustainable drainage system (SUDS) pond to prevent flooding.
A design statement supporting the planning application said: “The land at Crieff Road will deliver a new development which builds upon the character and local identity of the surrounding area.
“The site is currently run down and has become an eyesore. This proposal provides an opportunity to bring this site back into use for the benefit of the surrounding area.
“This site represents an excellent opportunity to provide necessary family and affordable housing within an area suitable for development. The new neighbourhood will create a desirable area for both new residents and existing neighbours.”
