Two houses and site works at Land between Currie Glen Farmhouse and Borthwick Scout Campsite Gorebridge

What was proposed

The application sought to demolish a former Scout building and build two houses with driveways, drainage, fences and walls.

“The Planning, Sustainable Growth and Investment Manager/Chief Planning Officer presented the report for determination. The application is for the demolition of the former Scout building and erection of two dwelling houses and associated works, including formation of driveways, installation of drainage infrastructure and erection of fences and walls at land…”

Officer report

Officers recommended refusal

Officers recommended refusal because the houses conflicted with countryside and protective policies and did not meet expected design standards.

“The proposed dwelling houses are also contrary to protective planning policies and not suitable for what would be the expected design standard in a conservation and special landscape area. There have been 58 representations and 58 consultation responses, of which 10 are supportive and the remaining 48 objecting to the application. The recommendation of the report is that planning permission be refused.”

Officer report

Members discussed the proposal

Members raised concerns about protecting the area, the houses’ design and how design standards could balance with the need for homes.

“The Planning, Sustainable Growth and Investment Manager/Chief Planning Officer advised that while the development plan supports the demolition of unused buildings, this application was recommended to be rejected for principle and design reasons, and noted that if the developer submitted a plan for one dwelling in a style which is respectful to the design standards of the conservation area it would be more likely to be accepted.”

Officer report

The decision

The Planning Committee refused planning permission, with the stated reasons being principle and design concerns.

“Decision The Planning Committee refused planning permission…”

Officer report

The decision

“Decision The Planning Committee refused planning permission Councillor Curran left the meeting at 14:49pm and did not return for the discussion of the private items.”

Minutes, 20 Jan 2026