Rifle range and building at Over Cassock, Eskdalemuir, Langholm

What was proposed

The application sought a rifle range, a facilities and accommodation building, hardstanding and associated works, using smaller-calibre weapons and temporary targets.

“Proposal 1.3 Planning permission is sought for use of the site as a rifle range, erection of a facilities and accommodation building, formation of hardstanding and associated…”

“PUBLIC PUBLIC works. The proposed operation has changed since this application was first submitted with an earlier proposal to be operated by the Fifty Caliber Shooters Association (FCSA), involving large calibre rifles with fixed location targets.”

Officer report

The site and surroundings

The site covers about 815 hectares of open agricultural fields in a remote valley, with nearby homes, watercourses and an existing farm building.

“The site is approximately 4.3 miles north of Eskdalemuir and is an irregular shaped area of some 815 Ha at the northern end of the valley. The land, which is to the north west of the existing farm buildings at Over Cassock, is undulating and comprises of open agricultural fields.”

Officer report

Why officers supported it

Officers considered the proposal compliant with development plan policies, with conditions addressing operations, ecology, biodiversity, sustainability and light pollution.

“Ecology/Biodiversity 4.13 The need to respect, protect and enhance the region’s rich and distinct biodiversity is an overarching strategic priority cutting through many of the policies of the Development Plan. Policies 3 and 4 of NPF4 require consideration to be given to the impact of development on habitat and the need for major developments to provide significant biodiversity enhancements.”

“Conclusion 4.19 In conclusion, the proposal is considered to be compliant with the provisions of the stated Development Plan Policies and as there are no material considerations which override the presumption in favour of a determination in accordance with the terms of the development plan, it is recommended that this application be approved subject to conditions.”

Officer report

Consultees’ views

The community council objected, while council access, roads, archaeology and environmental health officers and Police Scotland raised no objections.

“(a) The site is not affected by any core paths. There is a right of way running along the eastern boundary which the applicant should be aware of. The land is likely to be subject to the rights of responsible access, as granted in Part 1 of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003. The guidance provided in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code should be noted in relation to shooting where access rights may apply. The proposed management (by way of flags and signage) is acceptable.”

“Council Environmental Health Officer – No objections.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The committee heard from two objectors, the agent and the applicant through an online meeting.

The committee’s decision

The committee approved application 22/2115/FUL subject to the conditions set out in the report.

“APPROVED application 22/2115/FUL subject to conditions as detailed in the report.”

Minutes