An application by CALA Management/Ashfield Land to build 57 new homes on a greenbelt site near Birdston Road was refused planning permission in January on grounds including road safety concerns and the proposal being contrary to the previously adopted Local Plan 2.

The development, which included a quarter of the housing being made affordable, along with associated roads and landscaping, also generated 116 representations submitted from local residents against the proposals.

However, the council has now been informed that an appeal has been allowed by the Reporter for the Planning and Environmental Appeals Division and Scottish Ministers, subject to a legal agreement being signed.

Planning Board chair, Councillor Billy Hendry, said: “I am deeply disappointed that the Board’s decision to refuse permission has been overturned.

“We received 116 representations from the local community, which demonstrated the strength of feeling against the proposals.

“Concerns from local residents included greenbelt, road and transport, amenity, impact on the setting of a listed building, school capacity, biodiversity, drainage and other issues.

“I am saddened that this decision has failed to back the valid concerns of local residents and the Planning Board.”