PLANS to build almost 50 homes in Alloa have been approved by Clackmannanshire Council.

The plans were submitted by an agent acting for Allanwater Developments Ltd on March 30, 2018.

And the local authority approved the plans – subject to multiple conditions – on Monday, May 18, 2020.

According to documents, Allanwater wants to build 49 houses on a 1.98hectare area of land in South East Alloa that is currently lying vacant.

A number of groups were consulted in relation to the proposals.

One of those consulted was a regional archaeologist, who said the site "lies over a recorded former hamlet and may contain unrecorded archaeological remains".

In its decision notice, Clacks Council required that archaeological fieldwork be carried out on the site before works commence.

The aim of this is to ensure any remains are protected.

The proposed development had also been the subject of a "flood risk objection" by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (Sepa).

However, Sepa later withdrew the objection after Allanwater submitted separate plans to install a swale – a channel to manage water run-off – at the site.

And representations had been made by, Gary McPhail, vice-president of Alloa Rugby Club.

He previously raised concerns about the effect any housing development would have on drainage of the adjoining "poorly drained" rugby pitches.

However, it appears that plans to manage drainage on the site of the proposed development would not affect the pitches.

A spokesperson for Allanwater Homes told the Advertiser: "Having enjoyed great success at this location at Alloa Park, with over 200 new houses already built, we are delighted to launch phase eight of our popular Oaktree Gardens development."

The company said it already had consent to build 15 properties and added that "this is the balance" to bring it up to a total of 49 houses.