Stuart Abel applied to the council seeking planning permission in principle for the new homes located near Park Lane. His proposal will see the homes built on a site directly behind the primary school that was permanently shut in November last year. It closed to pupils in December 2018 after a leak of heating oil contaminated the site.

The development would see three “modest-sized plots” created.

However, one objection was received from a neighbour who said the development would negatively affect his privacy. Gordon Simpson said he was “very concerned” that the proposed access road would encroach on his land.

Despite his opposition, council planners recommended the plan be approved. Planners argued that the new homes would “offer additional housing to meet the need in the area”.

As the new houses would be west of the railway line, council officers suggested they could be “vulnerable” to noise nuisance from passing trains, The Press and Journal reports.

Network Rail had similar worries, but it is believed “acceptable” noise levels could be achieved through measures such as acoustic fencing.

The application was considered by the Marr area committee last week.

Councillor Gwyneth Petrie said it was “sensible” and the “best option” for new housing.

But she added: “I did have concerns about the contaminated land, but if the professionals are not concerned then we have to take their word for it and hope nothing arises when they build.”