22 homes and shop at Meikle Earnock Road, Hamilton

“Description of Proposed Development 3.1. Planning permission is sought for the erection of 22 houses, associated access and retail unit with parking provision on land adjacent to Meikle Earnock Road, Hamilton.”

“The proposal relates to the erection of a retail unit, approximately 420sq.m gross. The unit includes a retail sales area (280sq.m) and whilst to date there is no identified occupier of the unit, it is anticipated that the sales offer will be groceries and household items. In addition, the unit includes an ATM, staff facilities, a service yard and associated parking.”

“Site Description 2.1. The application site extends to approximately 1.5ha and relates to an area of undeveloped grassland. The site is situated in the designated Hamilton Community Growth Area (CGA) within the adopted South Lanarkshire Local Development Plan 2.”

“The site is enclosed to the north by Meikle Earnock Road and further by residential properties. To the east, the site is bound by an adjacent footpath (a designated core path) and trees, and further by residential properties. To the south, the site is enclosed by open space, including an existing SUDS pond. The site is enclosed to the west by an existing footpath and further by residential properties.”

“Relevant Planning History 4.1. The planning history relating to this site is as follows:-”

“HM/10/0052 - Development of Community Growth Area, comprising housing, neighbourhood centre, community facilities, access roads, open space and landscaping (Planning in Principle) (approved 11 May 2017).”

“Principle of Development The application site is designated as being a Community Growth Area (CGA) for Hamilton under the terms of Policy 1 of the adopted Local Development Plan. The development of the community growth areas throughout South Lanarkshire is identified as a spatial strategy priority of the adopted Local Development Plan.”

“Conclusion In conclusion, the proposal relates to the creation of a retail unit within the Hamilton Community Growth area, which will support local living, and a high quality residential development. The design, layout and general impact of the development is considered to be acceptable and the proposal raises no significant environmental or infrastructure issues.”

“Consultations 6.1. Environmental Services - No objection to the proposal, subject to conditions relating to the submission of a detailed remediation strategy for the site and construction noise. Response: Noted.”

“Roads Development Management Team – No objection to the proposal regarding parking or access arrangements and they recommended conditions relating to the submission of a Construction Phase Traffic Management Plan and the provision of minimum visibility splays. Response: Noted.”

“Impact on the Natural Environment • Concern regarding the adverse impact on wildlife • The development will result in a loss of greenspace • The proposal will adversely impact biodiversity on the site • There will be a loss of natural habitats • There will be trees lost to accommodate the development • A full habitat survey requires to be undertaken…”

“Other Matters Raised • The proposal does not accord with the Local Development Plan • The proposal will exacerbate existing drainage issues in the area • There will be increased demand on local services, such as schools and healthcare • The proposal does not align with the overarching goals of the local plan which promotes sustainable growth while safeguarding community well-being and environmental quality • NPF4 emphasises biodiversity, local character and infrastructure…”

“There followed a discussion on the application during which an officer responded to a member’s question on an aspect of the report.”

“The Committee decided: that planning application P/24/1354 by MK Homes (Hamilton) Limited for the erection of 22 houses, associated access and retail unit with parking provision at land adjacent to Meikle Earnock Road, Hamilton be granted subject to:-”

“the conditions specified in the Executive Director’s report • the terms of the Section 75 Agreement between the Council, site owner(s) and the applicant relating to planning consent HM/10/0052”