Angus Council refused the planning application at a meeting in March. Kirkwood Homes submitted plans for 62 homes on the greenfield site at Panbride Road. The number of properties was reduced to 60 after a public consultation and discussions with Angus Council.

The proposals were controversial amongst Carnoustie residents, with the local authority receiving 115 letters – 46 of which raised objections and 67 supported the application.

Kirkwood Homes land director Allan Rae said that the firm is disappointed the application was refused. He said: “We are confident that we have a strong planning case for our proposals which will persuade the reporter to overturn the decision, allowing us to progress in Carnoustie to ensure that much-needed and sought-after housing is delivered.

“Our proposals would see 60 new high-quality family homes, including 15 much needed affordable homes, delivered on the north-east side of the town.

“The overall development would see investment of £15 million come to Angus, as well as the creation and sustaining of 50 construction jobs during the construction phase of the development.”

If the refusal is overturned, Kirkwood Homes plans to begin construction in early 2023. It is expected that a decision will be made by the Scottish Government appointed reporter in the coming months, The Courier reports.

Council officers said the proposed development was said to be out with a “principal settlement” as set out in the local development plan. It was decided there was sufficient land available within principal settlements for such a development.

The Kirkwood proposals would have resulted in the release of greenfield land for residential development.

Angus Council added that there were no “social, economic, environmental or operational considerations which confirm there is a need for the proposed development that cannot be met within a development boundary”.