Councillors have unanimously refused planning permission in principle for a “major development” at a part of the Bannockburn battle site but have backed plans to bring one of Killearn’s oldest and most prominent buildings back into use as affordable housing.

The Bannockburn proposals sought planning permission in principle of up to 250 homes at land between the Bannock Burn, New Line Road and west of Glasgow Road.

Planning officers had recommended the proposals were rejected by Stirling Council amid concerns that the development would not respect the surrounding important landmark or view of the Bannockburn Monument. The development was also proposed for a Green Belt area.

Planning and regulation panel convenor, Alasdair MacPherson, said: “The unanimous rejection of these plans by councillors represents our recognition of the national importance of the historic Bannockburn battleground and this Green Belt area – the council fully agreed with planning officers that the proposals were completely inappropriate for such an important site in Stirling’s history and future.”

Developers Hallam Land Management had argued the new houses would not have a significant historical impact and pledged to carry out archaeological excavations to help understand the battle.

The proposal was considered at a special Council Meeting as the application was classed as a “major development” as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Hierarchy of Developments) (Scotland) Regulations 2009.

Meanwhile, members of the council’s planning and regulations panel have approved a conversion of the former ‘Black Bull Hotel’ at 2 The Square, Killearn.

The proposed residential units are to comprise six two bedroom and eight three bedroom flats. The site is located within the Killearn Conservation Area, which is part of the historic core of the village.

Councillor MacPherson added: “This development will make an attractive contribution to the conservation area as well as provide an affordable housing contribution for the local rural region.

“The plans are well designed and will bring back into use a building that was at risk of falling into future dereliction.”