One-and-a-half-storey extension at Letter Cottage Loch Katrine, Callander

What was proposed

The application proposed replacing the existing rear extension with a one-and-a-half-storey extension containing additional accommodation and an upstairs bathroom.

“Agenda Item 4 - 024/0107/HAE - Extension to dwelling Loch Katrine National Park Authority Planning and Access Committee Monday 23 February 2026 3.8. The front gardens on the south side of the properties are both private and enclosed by high hedging. The neighbouring Letter House has a conservatory extension on the south elevation. Description of Proposal 3.9. The proposal is to demolish the flat-roofed extension and erect a one and a half storey extension.”

“The proposed extension would have a mansard roof (a pitched roof with a flat section at ridge height) which would be the same height as the existing ridge. Eaves heights would match the existing. Proposed materials include matching natural slate roof (likely to be spanish Cupa3) and cement board clad walls with smooth acrylic render in white to match the existing.”

Officer report

What officers recommended

Officers recommended approval because the extension was proportionate, matched the existing building’s scale and materials, and would not cause unacceptable effects.

“The Design and Placemaking Supplementary Guidance supports high quality design and in relation to extensions, states that: i. New extensions should not be larger in scale than the original building i.e. it should not overwhelm or dominate the original building. ii. Eaves and ridge heights should be no higher than existing building. iii. Materials and detailing should complement the original building. iv.”

Officer report

What people said

Objections concerned design, privacy, overshadowing, access, construction, biodiversity, water supply, drainage, noise and the property’s use.

“Access and Construction Challenges • It is not feasible to construct the development. • Letter Cottage has no direct vehicle access; only long footpaths with steps lead to the property. • There is no room for materials storage and access without damage to trees and woodland. • Construction would require use of the shared narrow drive which must remain clear of obstruction for forestry operations, water supply maintenance, and peat restoration projects.”

Officer report

Who spoke

A councillor and another individual spoke against the application, and the applicant’s agent responded to questions about water supply, windows and privacy.

Members’ discussion

Members discussed bedrooms, first and second homes, access, the core path, water supply, policy, storage tanks and consultation.

“Questions from Members followed and focused on:”

“- How planning deals with first and second homes – BC clarified both are dwellings and no difference in planning considerations - Number of bedrooms in existing property and how many are proposed to be added – BC confirmed that currently it’s 2 bedroom and would become 4 bedroom - Access to the site - Impact on Core Path; BC confirmed consultation with Stirling Council as Roads Authority and LLTNPA Access Team had not raised any objections - Water supply; water scarcity…”

Minutes

The vote and decision

Members unanimously approved the application subject to the conditions in the report.

“MOTION: CS seconded by DF, proposed to approve the recommendation as follows:”

“APPROVE the application subject to the conditions set out in Appendix 1 of the report.”

Minutes