Plans for 340 homes on the edge of Perth have been given the green light by Perth and Kinross Council as Barratt and David Wilson Homes take over the development from the collapsed Stewart Milne Group. The 29-hectare site, part of the 103-hectare Almond Valley development, will include 292 houses, 48 flats, 28 garages, retail units, sports facilities, and play areas next to Huntingtowerfield and Ruthvenfield near Perth. Of the 340 homes, 85 will be affordable housing units. The council received objections from locals, with concerns raised about the impact on the environment and the lack of local services in the area.
Local resident Mark Purmann-Charles expressed his concerns to the council’s Planning and Placemaking Committee, calling the proposal a “missed opportunity” and highlighting the need for more sustainable and community-focused developments. Despite objections, a spokesperson for Barratt and David Wilson Homes defended the project, stating that it would help address the national housing crisis and that the changes to the plans were minimal.
The development plans were ultimately approved by the committee, with councillors acknowledging the need for housing in the area but also expressing reservations about the site’s location near the River Almond. Councillor Claire McLaren emphasised the importance of creating communities and suggested future developments consider additional community amenities like gardens and halls.
The approval of the 340 homes development marks a significant step in addressing the housing needs in Perthshire. While some concerns have been raised about the environmental impact and lack of local services, the project aims to provide much-needed housing in the area. With a mix of affordable and market-rate homes, the development will contribute to tackling the housing crisis. As the construction progresses, it remains crucial for developers to consider the long-term sustainability and community integration of such projects.