Published: Wednesday, 7th May, 2008 12:00
Enthusiastic approval for Shore plans
By Bob Lovik
Comments (0)
Print Article
An artist's impression of part of the proposed development along Alloa's shore.
THE Alloa shore area is now just months away from undergoing a major facelift after development plans were given an enthusiastic green light by Clackmannanshire Council.
Developers have targeted September as a start date for construction after a masterplan was unanimously approved by the council during last Thursday’s regulatory meeting.
With planning permission now granted, council officials still need to give final approval of the detailed layout – which Paul Zarb, land director for the developer Highmore Homes, said could go through this month.
Mr Zarb told the Advertiser, “It was a very encouraging meeting and I was pleasantly surprised at the enthusiastic reception.
“We were told that we will know by the end of the month whether or not the layouts have been approved and if everything goes smoothly, we hope to begin construction in September.”
Mr Zarb said the construction would take three to four years to complete and could include office space and a budget hotel.
He said, “The development will bring jobs to the area in the form of short-term construction work and the potential for long-term employment in the mixed-use area.
“There is a real opportunity for office space and even a budget hotel.”
The development will consist of a modern mix of residential, commercial and recreational space and will include over 100 homes, ground floor shops and public space.
The planning application was approved on the condition that the historic harbour wallheads are maintained as a reminder of the area’s prior use.
Councillor Harry McLaren told the meeting, “I hope that the officers will insist on high quality development particularly in areas of public access that gives attention to recognising Alloa’s maritime past.”
Clackmannanshire councillors all welcomed the development and agreed that it was a significant addition to the county’s regeneration.
Councillor George Matchett said, “This is an area that has been calling out for a long time for investment.
“This development will do a lot for the area, especially on the back of the opening of the new Alloa Academy.
“I am very happy to support this and I think it is important to note that there have been no letters of objection from the community who are immediately affected by this.”
Councillor Kenny Earle said the development had the potential to be recognised throughout the country as a major tourist draw.
He said, “This goes some way to correcting the mistakes of the past. This will be a major success.
“As a tourist attraction, there is an ability to make this a development recognised throughout Scotland.
“This will really put Clackmannanshire on the map.”
The development is currently shortlisted for a national design award, with the winners due to be announced tomorrow (Friday).
Del.icio.us
Digg
Facebook
Reddit
Stumbleupon
Further Details
'Gentle' son dies in motorbike tragedy