Agenda Document Pack - Planning Committee - 03/09/2026
North Lanarkshire Council · 3 September 2026
Back to Planning Committee — 3 September 2026 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
Page 1
25 August 2026 Members of the Planning Committee Chief Executive’s Office Rachel Blair Chief Officer (Legal, Democratic and Strategy) Civic Centre, Windmillhill Street, Motherwell ML1 1AB www.northlanarkshire.gov.uk Notice is given that a Meeting of the Planning Committee is to be held in the Council Chamber, Civic Centre, Windmillhill Street, Motherwell, ML1 1AB on Thursday, 03 September 2026 at 10:00 AM which you are requested to attend. The agenda of business is attached. Rachel Blair Chief Officer (Legal, Democratic and Strategy) Members : Clerk Name: Clare Louise McDonald Clerk Telephone: 07350 435308 Clerk Email: committee@northlan.gov.uk N Shevlin, G Currie, A Beveridge, B Burgess, A Bustard, J Cairns, M Coyle, S Coyle, K Docherty, A Duffy-Lawson, T Fisher, M Hughes, L Jarvie, T Johnston, J Keltie, J Logue, H Loughran, J McLaren, C McManus, M McPake, A McVey, D Robb, A Smith, G Woods. Page 1 of 48
Page 2
Page 2 of 48
Page 3
Agenda 1 Declarations of Interest In Terms of the Ethical Standards In Public Life Etc. (Scotland) Act 2000 2 Planning Applications Index Submit Planning Application Index 5 - 48 Page 3 of 48
Page 4
Page 4 of 48
Page 5
North Lanarkshire Council Planning Applications for consideration of Planning Committee Committee Date: 3rd September 2026 Ordnance Survey maps reproduced from Ordnance Survey with permission of HMSO Crown Copyright reserved Item 2 Page 5 of 48
Page 6
APPLICATIONS FOR PLANNING COMMITTEE 3rd September 2026 Page No Application No Applicant Development/Site Recommendation 7 26/00093/FUL Skipness Road Developments Ltd New Retail Development including Car Parking and Service Access Land to the North of 5 Skipness Road Gartcosh Grant 28 26/00528/FUL Revolution Spin Change of Use of Unit to Use Class 11: Leisure and Recreation for Use as a Fitness Cycle Studio 1 Badenheath Place Westfield Cumbernauld G68 9HX Grant 37 26/00602/FUL Meadowfield Fishery Formation of a Smallholding with a Residential Lodge Land at Meadowfield Road Longriggend Refuse Page 6 of 48
Page 7
Application No: 26/00093/FUL Proposed Development: New Retail Development including Car Parking and Service Access Site Address: Land To The North Of 5 Skipness Road Gartcosh North Lanarkshire Date Registered: 6th February 2026 Applicant: Skipness Road Developments Ltd Salisbury House Saxon Way Hessle East Yorkshire HU13 9PB Agent: Charles Scott And Partners Tay House 300 Bath Street Glasgow G2 4JR Application Level: Local Application Contrary to Development Plan: No Ward: 06 Gartcosh, Glenboig And Moodiesburn Greg Lennon,Michael McPake,Joanne Katy Keltie, Representations: 27 letter(s) of representation received. Recommendation: Approve Subject to Conditions Reasoned Justification: The proposed development is in accordance with the relevant policies contained in National Planning Framework 4 and the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan 2022 and will deliver local retail provision which is required to support the wider Community Growth Area as well as provide a high quality development appropriate to the surrounding area. Page 7 of 48
Page 8
Reproduced by permission of the Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. © Crown Copyright and database right 2009. All rights reserved. Ordnance Survey Licence number 100023396. Planning Application: 26/00093/FUL Name (of applicant): Skipness Road Developments Ltd Site Address: Land To The North Of 5 Skipness Road Gartcosh North Lanarkshire Development: New Retail Development including Car Parking and Service Access Page 8 of 48
Page 9
Proposed Conditions:- 1. That, except as may otherwise be agreed in writing by the Planning Authority, the development shall be implemented in accordance with drawing numbers:- 1720-HLA-XX-XX-DR-L-90-001 E C011C C018A C012 A001 A002 A003 A100 A101 A102 C001 C002 C012 C014 C015 C016 Reason: To clarify the drawings on which this approval of permission is founded. 2. That BEFORE the development hereby permitted starts, a scheme of landscaping shall be submitted to, and approved in writing by the Planning Authority, and it shall include:- (a) details of any earth moulding and hard landscaping, boundary treatment, grass seeding and turfing; (b) a scheme of tree and shrub planting, incorporating details of the location, number, variety and size of trees and shrubs to be planted; (c) an indication of all existing trees and hedgerows, plus details of those to be retained, and measures for their protection in the course of development (d) a detailed timetable for all landscaping works which shall provide for these works being carried out contemporaneously with the development of the site Reason: In the interests of visual amenity and biodiversity. 3. That all works included in the scheme of landscaping and planting, approved under the terms of condition 2 above, shall be completed in accordance with the approved timetable, and any trees, shrubs, or areas of grass which die, are removed, damaged, or become diseased, within two years of the full occupation of the development hereby permitted, shall be replaced within the following year with others of a similar size and species. Reason: In the interests of visual amenity and biodiversity. 4. That BEFORE any works of any description start on the application site, unless otherwise agreed in writing with the Planning Authority, a comprehensive site investigation report shall be submitted to and for the approval of the said Authority. The investigation must be carried out in accordance with current best practice advice, such as BS 10175 : 'The Investigation of Potentially Contaminated Sites' or CLR 11. The report must include a site specific risk assessment of all relevant pollution linkages and a Page 9 of 48
Page 10
conceptual site model. Depending on the results of the investigation, a detailed Remediation Strategy may be required. Information on the required format of the report and how it should be submitted to us can be found online: https://www.northlanarkshire.gov.uk/planning-and-building/planning- applications/how-discharge-contaminated-land-planning-conditions Reason: To establish whether or not site decontamination is required in the interests of the amenity and wellbeing of future users. 5. That any remediation works identified by the site investigation required in terms of Condition 4, shall be carried out to the satisfaction of the Planning Authority. A certificate (signed by a chartered Environmental Engineer) shall be submitted to the Planning Authority confirming that any remediation works have been carried out in accordance with the terms of the Remediation Strategy. Reason: in the interests of the amenity and wellbeing of future users 6. That BEFORE the development hereby permitted starts, unless otherwise agreed in writing with the Planning Authority, full details of the proposed surface water drainage scheme shall be submitted to and for the approval of the said Authority. For the avoidance of doubt the drainage scheme must comply with the requirements of the publication titled `Drainage Assessment : A Guide for Scotland' and any other advice subsequently published by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) or the Sustainable Urban Drainage Scottish Working Party (SUDSWP). The post-development surface water discharges shall ensure that the rate and quantity of run-off to any watercourse are no greater than the pre-development run-off for any storm return period unless it can be demonstrated that a higher discharge is necessary to protect or improve the aquatic habitat. SUDS shall still be provided even where discharges are proposed to public sewers notwithstanding any conditions imposed by Scottish Water. Reason: To ensure that the drainage scheme complies with best SUDS practice to protect adjacent watercourses and groundwater. 7. That the SUDS compliant surface water drainage scheme approved in terms of Condition 6 shall be implemented contemporaneously with the development in so far as is reasonably practical. Within three months of the construction of the SUDS, a certificate (signed by a Chartered Civil Engineer experienced in drainage works) shall be submitted to the Planning Authority confirming that the SUDS has been constructed in accordance with the relevant CIRIA Manual and the approved plans. Reason: To safeguard adjacent watercourses and groundwater from pollution. 8. That PRIOR to the occupation of the development, the applicant shall provide written confirmation to the Planning Authority that all the requirements of Scottish Water can be fully met to demonstrate that the development will not have an impact on their assets, and that suitable infrastructure can be put in place to support the development. Reason: To ensure the provision of adequate water supply and drainage provisions. 9. That before the development herby permitted first comes into use, the means of vehicular and pedestrian access shall be constructed in accordance with the approved plans and that all the parking and manoeuvring areas shown on the plans shall be levelled, properly drained, surfaced in a material which has been approved in writing and clearly marked out. Thereafter, it shall be maintained as such. Reason: In the interests of traffic and pedestrian safety and visual amenity of the area. 10. That BEFORE the development hereby permitted starts, a management and maintenance scheme shall be submitted to, and approved in writing by the Planning Authority, and it shall include proposals for the continuing care, maintenance and protection of:- Page 10 of 48
Page 11
(a) the proposed parking areas (b) the proposed grassed, planted and landscaped areas; (c) the proposed fences to be erected along the boundaries. Reason: In the interest of the amenity of the site and the general area. 11. That BEFORE completion of the development hereby permitted, the management and maintenance scheme approved under the terms of condition 10 shall be in operation. Reason: In the interest of the amenity of the site and the general area. 12. That BEFORE the development is brought into use details of the external scheme of lighting including the type, dimensions and locations of fittings and associated electrical equipment shall be submitted to, and approved in writing by the Planning Authority. Reason: In the interests of Amenity 13. That prior to the commencement of any works on-site, full details of the final layout, design and specification of mechanical plant and services to be installed within the units shall be provided to the Planning Authority for their written approval. For the avoidance of doubt any mitigation required shall be implemented to the satisfaction of the Council. Reason: In the interests of residential amenity. 14. That deliveries to the development for which planning permission is hereby granted shall take place only between the following hours: 7am to 7pm Reason: In the interests of Residential Amenity. 15. That BEFORE the development hereby permitted starts, full details of the facing materials to be used on all external walls and roofs shall be submitted to, and approved in writing by the Planning Authority and the development shall be implemented in accordance with the details approved under the terms of this condition. Reason: In the interests of Visual Amenity. Page 11 of 48
Page 12
Background Papers: Consultation Responses: Scottish Water 12 February 2026 Environmental Health (including Pollution Control) 15 May 2026, 12 June 2026 Traffic & Transportation 03 June 2026, 18 June 2026 NLC Greenspace 07 April 2026, 16 June 2026, 23 July 2026 Scottish Gas Network 17 February 2026 Contact Information: Any person wishing to inspect these documents should contact Susan Hunt at 01236 632500 Report Date: 24th August 2026 Page 12 of 48
Page 13
APPLICATION NO. 26/00093/FUL REPORT 1. Site Description 1.1 The application site lies within the Gartcosh and Glenboig Community Growth Area to the north of Skipness Road, Gartcosh and has an area of 0.47 hectares. The site is bound to the North by a SuDs pond and Johnston Loch beyond, to the South by existing housing on Skipness Road and Gour Place, and to the East by existing housing on Duror Drive and to the West by open fields. Vehicular access is to be taken from Skipness Road. 1.2 The site consists of vacant open grassland with undulating topography. The site falls away from the high point along Skipness Road to the northern boundary of the site which runs adjacent to an existing SuDs pond and sewer pipeline. 2. Proposed Development 2.1 This is a full detailed planning application and seeks permission for 5 retail units comprising Class 1 A uses. 2.2 Unit 1, is the largest unit and measures 26.8m x 16m (428sq.m) and is located in the westernmost part of the site. It has a mono pitched roof and an overall height of 5.1m on the front elevation and 3.5m on the rear elevation. The applicant has confirmed that Unit 1 is to be occupied by a national retail chain and operated as one of their smaller store formats. 2.3 Units 2 to 5 comprise a terrace of 4 smaller units which are located to the east of the site. The block measures 35.6m x 12.3m with a footprint of approximately 438 square metres. It has a mono pitched roof, and the block is stepped to follow the ground level meaning that the height of the front elevation of the unit increases from 5.1m closest to Skipness Road to 5.8m at the north of the site. The rear elevation overall height increases from 2.76m to 4.4m. The floorspace is divided equally between the four units with an internal area of 100 sqm. The units have floor to ceiling glazing on the front elevation and a single solid door to the rear. 2.4 The proposed materials pallette comprises red brick with rendered block work to the walls, dark grey roofing panels with dark grey window frames, flashings, trims and gutters. 2.5 The proposal includes a cut and fill exercise to provide a more level site to accommodate the retail units and car parking whilst tying in with the existing level of Skipness Road. The site currently drops to the north of the site along the line of the sewer and existing SUDs basin. 2.6 The proposed elevation shows areas for signage for each of the units; and these would be assessed separately through application(s) for advertising consent should permission be granted. 3. Applicant’s Supporting Information • Design and Access Statement • Transport Statement • Delivery and Servicing Management Plan • Noise Assessment • Ecological Appraisal (including further Habitat Suitability Index report and eDNA report) • Landscaping Plans Page 13 of 48
Page 14
• Site Investigation 4. Site History 4.1 Relevant applications with pertinence to the proposed development of this site include the following: • 12/00247/EIASCR: Proposed Residential Development (EIA Screening Request) • 12/01151/PAN: Proposed Residential Development, Road Infrastructure and Landscaping • 14/01849/PPP: Residential Development with Associated Access Roads, Open Space, Landscaping and Ancillary Facilities (Including 0.5ha for retail purposes) (up to 300 houses) granted 11 January 2017 • 16/01850/MSC: Application for matters specified by condition of application 14/01849/PPP consisting of 247 residential units, associated drainage, infrastructure, road and landscape works granted 01 May 2017 5. Development Plan 5.1 The Development Plan consists of National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) and the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan 2022 (LDP). NPF4 was adopted by the Scottish Government in February 2023 and prevails over any policies in the Local Development Plan that are incompatible with its aims and objectives. The policies relevant to the application are: National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) Policy 1 Tackling the climate and nature crisis Policy 2 Climate mitigation and adaptation Policy 3 Biodiversity Policy 12 Zero Waste Policy 13 Sustainable Transport Policy 14 Design, Quality and Place Policy 15 Local Living and 20 minute Neighbourhoods Policy 18 Infrastructure First Policy 20 Blue and Green Infrastructure Policy 22 Flood Risk and Water Management Policy 23 Health and Safety North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan (2022) (LDP) PP3 - Purpose of Place (General Urban Area) PROM LOC 3 – Housing Development Sites AD3 - Amount of Development PP1A – Strategic Town Centres AD 1A – Amount of Development Page 14 of 48
Page 15
PP1B – Other Town Centres AD 1B - Amount of Development PP1C – Local Centres AD1C – Amount of Development CI - Contributions to Infrastructure PROT A - Natural and Green Network Assets EDQ1 – Site Appraisal EDQ2 – Specific Features for Consideration EDQ3 – Quality of Development Other Guidance: Designing Streets: A Policy Statement for Scotland, Scottish Government 2010 NLC Active Travel Strategy 2021-2031 NLC Parking Standards Gartcosh Glenboig Community Growth Area Strategic Development Framework Gartcosh Local Place Plan 2025 6. Consultations 6.1 NLC Infrastructure and Transportation required clarification and further information during the assessment of this application. They recommended deferral of the application due to 3 outstanding matters relating to vehicle swept path analysis, parking provision and servicing arrangements to Unit 1. The matters raised are assessed below in paragraph 8.35 6.2 NLC Greenspace has confirmed that the Ecological Appraisal and additional Habitat Suitability Index report and eDNA report are acceptable and requested that the landscaping and biodiversity improvements be secured by condition. 6.3 NLC Protective Services provided standard comments on the construction phase, requirement for Site Investigation, Lighting and requested a Noise Assessment. The applicant submitted a Noise Assessment and following further information this was found to be acceptable with Pollution Control requesting a condition to be applied regarding operating hours and specification of any plant to be installed. 6.4 Scottish Water has no objection to the proposal and advises that there is sufficient capacity in Balmore Water Treatment Works and for foul water to the Dalmuir Waste Water Treatment Works. 6.5 Scottish Gas Network has no objection and notes that there are no High Pressure assets within the vicinity of the site. 7. Representations 7.1 Following standard neighbour notification and newspaper advertisement 27 letters of representation were received. The main points can be summarised as follows: Page 15 of 48
Page 16
7.2 22 letters of objection (more than 1 objection received from 3 addresses) received stating the following concerns: • Design and layout of the site • Loss of Character and Residential Setting • Increased Traffic and Congestion • Suitability of the wider road network to accommodate the development (including junction to A725 and traffic calming requirement on Skipness Road) • Safety of Vehicles, Pedestrians and Pets in the surrounding area • Lack of pedestrian connections • Privacy and Overlooking (including Land raising, child safety and wellbeing) • Increase of people to the area • Noise (from delivery vehicles, refrigeration and ventilation systems, waste collection and staff operations) • Overdevelopment of the Site • Impact on Sunlight • Light pollution • Insufficient screening and landscape mitigation • Loss of Green Space • Impact on local biodiversity and wildlife (including bio security matters) • The development would block or limit views for residents in the area • Too much parking • Car park would become a focal point for antisocial behaviour • Odour, Waste, Litter and Vermin • No specified boundary treatment • Lack of Community Engagement • Lack of capacity in infrastructure (already over flowing sewers) 7.3 5 letters of support were also received. In summary they made the following comments in support of the proposal: • the creation of local jobs • increased local amenities that are much needed in the area • increased local spending • sustainability and reduced car dependency • long-standing planning intent Page 16 of 48
Page 17
8. Planning Assessment 8.1 Section 25 of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 requires that the application be determined in accordance with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise. The Development Plan consists of National Planning Framework (NPF4) and the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan (LDP). NPF4 was adopted by the Scottish Government in February 2023 and prevails over any policies in the Local Development Plan that are incompatible with its aims and objectives. With regard to decision making, development that accords with the Development Plan should be approved unless the adverse effects of doing so would significantly and demonstrably outweigh any benefits that the development could expect to deliver. Background 8.2 The Gartcosh Glenboig Community Growth Area concept statement of April 2010 and the South Cumbernauld Community Growth Area Strategic Development Framework, June 2016 set out the Council’s guiding principles for development across the GCA. 8.3 The land to which the proposal relates lies within the Gartcosh Glenboig Community Growth Area (CGA) in the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan (LDP) 2022. There is not a masterplan or planning permission in principle approval which covers the entirety of the CGA. Individual sites within the CGA have been brought forward on their own merit. 8.4 The application site falls within a larger site granted Planning Permission in Principle (PPP) in (14/01849/PPP); however, the applicant has chosen to submit a stand-alone full detailed planning application and not an application for Matters Specified by Condition. That said, the site location aligns with condition 2 of the PPP which requires the location of the local neighbourhood centre (0.5ha) to be allocated and safeguarded as the MSC applications came forward. This was established through the granting of 16/01850/MSC in May 2017 which assessed the location of the local neighbourhood centre and safeguarded the site for a future application to be brought forward. 8.5 It is considered that granting this full detailed planning permission would not preclude or impinge upon the implementation of Planning Permission in Principle,14/01849/PPP or Matters Specified by condition application 16/01850/MSC or any future MSC applications linked to the PPP. EIA Screening 8.6 This type of application is considered to fall within the ‘urban development project’ in terms of Schedule 2 of the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2017. As the application site is not located in a ‘sensitive area’ (as defined by the EIA Regulations) and the application site does not exceed the 0.5ha threshold for urban development projects the application does not require to be the subject of Environmental Impact Assessment. Community Consultation 8.7 The proposal is classed as ‘local’ development under the provisions of the Town and Country Planning Hierarchy of Developments (Scotland) Regulations 2009. As such, pre-application consultation prior to submission of the application was not required in terms of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Scotland) Regulations 2021. National Planning Framework 4 Page 17 of 48
Page 18
8.8 NPF4 Policy 1 Tackling the Climate and Nature Crises states that when assessing development proposals, significant weight will be given to tackling these crises and Policy 2 Climate Mitigation and Adaptation requires that development minimise greenhouse gas emissions and promote energy efficiency and renewable energy. The site is located within the General Urban Area within the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan and is allocated for development. It is therefore considered to be a sustainable site in terms of its location, in that it supports the development plan’s spatial strategy of compact urban growth, and it is well served by public transport options, strategic cycling and footpath networks and is in close proximity to schools and employment opportunities. The site is not covered by any national or local nature designations, and a Preliminary Ecological Assessment supporting the application concludes that the site is of limited biodiversity and includes areas of planting within its landscaping proposals. Surface water is taken to an existing Sustainable Urban Drainage System which takes in to account future climate change. Overall, it is considered that the proposal is in accordance with the main principles of Policy 1 and Policy 2. 8.9 NPF4 Policy 3 Biodiversity requires major development proposals to conserve, restore and enhance biodiversity. The Preliminary Ecological Assessment submitted with the application shows limited ecological value across the site. It is concluded that the landscaping scheme, to be secured by condition, can be reasonably considered to offer a proportionate level of biodiversity enhancements through the introduction of habitat rich tree, shrub and grass planting thereby complying with Policy 3. 8.10 NPF4 Policy 12 Zero Waste seeks to reduce, reuse or recycle materials in line with the waste hierarchy. Upon completion of the development the site would be managed privately to dispose of commercial waste. The Service and Delivery Management Plan confirms that for the operator of the larger unit, recycling is made up primarily of packaging waste and is stored in the unit and returned to their distribution centre following each daily delivery. A small amount of perishable waste will be collected in Eurobins which are collected via private contract on an ‘as needed’ basis but typically once per week. For the smaller units waste will be collected via private contract. 8.11 NPF4 Policy 13 Sustainable Transport seeks to encourage, promote and facilitate developments that prioritise walking, wheeling, cycling and public transport for everyday travel and reduce the need to travel unsustainably. This development is located within the wider Community Growth Area near established bus, rail, road and cycle routes and is considered to show sufficient connectivity to meet this policy requirement. As such it is considered that the development accords with this policy. 8.12 NPF4 Policy 14 Design, Quality and Place seeks to ensure that developments are of a good design, are not detrimental to the amenity of the surrounding area and are consistent with the 6 qualities of successful places – Healthy, Pleasant, Connected, Distinctive, Sustainable and Adaptable. It is considered that the proposal is largely consistent with these qualities. However, it is considered that the impact of noise and co-location to nearby existing residential uses requires particular consideration and this is assessed below against the Environmental and Design Qualities policies, EDQ 1, 2, 3 of the LDP. The principles of this policy are enshrined, and expanded upon, within the Environmental Design Policies EDQ1-3 of the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan and are discussed in more detail below. 8.13 Policy 15 (Local Living and 20 Minute Neighbourhoods) This policy intends to encourage, promote and facilitate the application of the Place Principle and create connected and compact neighbourhoods where people can meet the majority of their daily needs within a reasonable distance of their home, Page 18 of 48
Page 19
preferably by walking, wheeling or cycling or using sustainable transport options. Being within an urban area the site is well served by road, bus and footpath links. The site selection process for the Community Growth Area took these principles into account. It is therefore considered that this application accords with the principles of policy 15. 8.14 NPF 4 Policy 18 Infrastructure First supports developments that provide (or contribute to) infrastructure in line with that identified in LDPs and their delivery programmes. The wider Community Growth Area is subject to financial contributions relating to the wider road network and education provision; however, this is limited to residential units and not to commercial development. No infrastructure requirements have been identified in the assessment of this application. The application is therefore considered to be in accordance with NPF4 Policy 18. 8.15 NPF4 Policy 20 Blue and Green Infrastructure seeks to protect and enhance blue and green infrastructure and their networks. The wider PPP site is included in the LDP protect Map where there is a general designation relating to the Seven Lochs Wetland Park project. In terms of blue infrastructure, there are no watercourses on site and the site is designed to drain to the SUDs system already in place for the wider PPP site. The proposal does not impact on watercourses or Johnston Loch. The application does not adversely impact on the wider green infrastructure routes and the proposed landscaping is satisfactory in terms of its planting scheme. However, it is considered prudent to attach a condition to control this matter. The application is therefore considered to be in accordance with NPF4 Policy 20. 8.16 NPF 4 Policy 22 Flood Risk and Water Management seeks to strengthen resilience to flood risk by promoting avoidance as a first principle and reducing the vulnerability of existing and future development to flooding. The site does not fall within an area identified on SEPA flood maps as at risk of fluvial or river flooding. 14/01849/PPP and 16/01850/MSC were both supported by flood risk assessments which confirmed that this site is not in an area affected by flooding or requiring any mitigation measures. Surface water from the site is to be fed to the existing SUDs pond immediately north of the site before discharge to the watercourse channel to the west of the site. 8.17 NPF4 Policy 23 Health and Safety seeks to protect people and places from environmental harm, mitigate risks arising from safety hazards and encourage, promote and facilitate development that improves health and wellbeing. Criteria (e) notes that development proposals that are likely to raise unacceptable noise issues will not be supported and that a Noise Impact Assessment may be required where the nature of the proposal or its location raise the potential need for noise to be considered. A Noise Assessment has been submitted for the site and this matter is considered below against the Environmental and Design Qualities policies, EDQ 1, 2, 3 of the LDP. North Lanarkshire Council Local Development Plan 8.18 The site falls within the Gartcosh Glenboig Community Growth Area in the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan and sits within a wider area zoned as PP3 Purpose of Place General Urban Area that seeks to encourage development in keeping with their residential character whilst acknowledging that uses outwith classes 8 and 9 of an appropriate scale, within recognisably mixed use areas can be appropriate to maintain and support the operation of the General Urban Area. The policy requires an assessment of appropriateness and list of information to be included. In terms of retail provision the application requires to satisfy the provisions of Policy PP1A in that it has been assessed using the Town Centres First Sequential Approach, its impact on the General Urban Area, evidence of specific locational need, significant economic benefit and impact on travel patterns. Page 19 of 48
Page 20
8.19 In this instance the site falls within the Gartcosh Glenboig Community Growth Area and the Strategic Development Framework, and whilst pre-dating the Local Development Plan, carries significant weight when assessing this application and as such the sequential approach is not required as a specific locational need has been established for local retail development in this area through the approval of the CGA. Furthermore, the trigger points for retail impact assessment detailed in policies AD 1 A, AD 1B and AD 1C are not considered appropriate in the assessment of this planning application as the Strategic Development Framework stipulates the amount of retail development that can be brought forward without the requirement for a Retail Impact Assessment. 8.20 The Vision of the Strategic Development Framework (SDF) is to provide infrastructure appropriate to the development including retail and community uses necessary to support the residential area. The SDF requires developers to allocate and safeguard an appropriate area of land for this purpose in applications coming forward. The SDF states that anything larger than 1200 sqm gross retail floorspace and 3800 sqm parking and circulation (0.5ha) will require to be justified based on a robust Retail Impact Assessment. 8.21 The proposed development meets the terms of the SDF and therefore a Retail Impact Assessment is not required. 8.22 Planning Permission in Principle 14/01849/PPP granted on 10 January 2017, prior to the adoption of the Local Development Plan, established the location of the 0.5ha area for retail provision and the retail provision was secured via condition for forthcoming MSC applications. Permission 16/01850/MSC granted on 01 May 2017 further assessed the location of the retail provision. 8.23 Whilst it is accepted that this application has been submitted as a full detailed planning application and not as a Matter Specified by Conditions application associated with 14/01849/PPP it is considered that the principle of this scale of retail development in this location is justified and acceptable as the detailed application has been located on the site the identified for this purpose. 8.24 CI Contributions to Infrastructure seeks to secure developer contributions for new developments, that, individually or cumulatively, generate a requirement for new or enhanced infrastructure services. The Community Growth Area as whole is subject to agreed contributions for education and off-site road improvement described in the Strategic Development Framework for residential developments; however, this is not extended to commercial developments and as such no contributions are required. No other contribution requirements have been identified during the assessment of the proposed development. 8.25 PROT A - Natural and Green Network Assets seeks to protect natural and resilient sustainable places by safeguarding natural heritage assets. Category A5 requires an appraisal to demonstrate that protected species would not be compromised or any significant adverse effects on the protected species are appropriately mitigated. The applicant has submitted the required ecological assessments, and these have not identified any protected species or protected habitats. The proposed landscaping is considered acceptable and can be secured via condition. 8.26 The Environmental & Design Qualities policies EDQ1-3 within the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan apply to this application. The supporting Planning Statement accompanying the planning application provides an acceptable site appraisal upon which the design has been developed and therefore complies with EDQ1. Page 20 of 48
Page 21
8.27 Policy EDQ2 Specific Features for Consideration states that consideration will be given to development in areas subject to hazards (hazardous zones) and other specific features such as in accordance with plans and protocols of the relevant managing agencies. In this case Flood Risk and Contaminated Land are considered. 8.28 In terms of Flood Risk, the site does not fall within an area identified on SEPA flood maps as at risk of fluvial or river flooding. 14/01849/PPP and 16/01850/MSC were both supported by flood risk assessments which confirmed that this site is not in an area affected by flooding or requiring any mitigation measures. 8.29 In terms of contaminated land, a Site Investigation has been submitted in respect of this application but its review has not been concluded. On this basis, it is considered that a standard condition requiring the submission of the Site Investigation and Remediation Strategy be applied together with a further condition requiring any remediation measures required to be verified. 8.30 The site does not fall within a High Risk area in terms of previous mining activity and as such a Coal Mining Risk Assessment is not required. 8.31 No Utilities Infrastructure is identified on the site in terms of the EDQ2B. 8.32 Turning to EDQ2 C, the site is not located in an Air Quality or Noise Management Area. The scale and nature of the development is not considered to be such that an Air Quality Assessment is required. In terms of noise, the applicant submitted a Noise Assessment and following clarification on certain matters, Protective Services are satisfied with the Noise Assessment and have recommended that should permission be granted then conditions restricting deliveries to between 07:00 and 19:00 and the submission of the final, design and specification of any mechanical plant be prior to any works starting on site. These conditions are considered reasonable and can be applied to any permission granted. 8.33 Taking the above into account it is considered that the application accords with the provisions of Policy EDQ2. 8.34 EDQ3 Quality of Development seeks to ensure that high standards of site planning and sustainable design are achieved and provides criteria to assess the application against. 8.35 The location of the site within the Community Growth Area is discussed above and found to be acceptable and well served in terms of vehicular and pedestrian access taken from the main vehicular road through the Phase 1 residential site approved under 16/01850/MSC. The internal layout and design of the site are considered to be acceptable. Whilst of standard commercial design the retail units are commensurate with similar retail development and shall deliver a high quality development with a material palette of red brick and render that references the surrounding residential developments. It is considered that the development represents a safe, pleasant, inclusive, convenient and welcoming development. It is acknowledged that the car parking is centrally located within the site and is visually prominent; however, this layout has been arrived at as a result of the fixed location of the vehicular access to the site. NLC Traffic and Transportation initially recommended deferral on the basis of lack of parking but have subsequently confirmed that the parking provision is acceptable for a retail development of the scale proposed. Turning to the service vehicle tracking Page 21 of 48
Page 22
exercise carried out it is acknowledged that the type of delivery vehicle used for servicing the site will have to be controlled as the applicant has not been able to demonstrate the ability to meet the terms of the worst case service vehicle scenario. However, it has been adequately demonstrated that the site can be serviced and this private development will have control over the vehicles servicing the site. The applicant has also relocated the bin stores for Units 2-5 to be collected from Skipness Road rather than from within the site to further reduce potential impact. Finally, whilst it is noted that NLC Transportation and Infrastructure requested a separate servicing access for Unit 1, given the physical constraints of the site, the requirement for retail development in this location and the limited scale of the unit it is considered that a separate servicing access is not necessary given these circumstances. 8.36 The retail spaces are designed to meet SBEM calculations for commercial development in relation to energy efficiency and carbon targets required to demonstrate compliance with building regulations. 8.37 The development is not of a scale to require an Air Quality Assessment. 8.38 The applicant submitted a Noise Assessment with the application to assess any impact on neighbouring residential properties. NLC Protective Services has reviewed the Noise Assessment and found it to be acceptable and have recommended conditions relating to hours of operation and details of mechanical plant that may be installed. Appropriate conditions are attached to control these matters. 8.39 In terms of drainage and surface water treatment the site would be served by the adjacent main residential SUDs pond which has been sized (during the PPP and MSC process) to accommodate the surface water run-off from the site. It is noted that this drainage infrastructure is already in place with its design and installation confirmed via the discharge of conditions process associated with 16/01850/MSC. In terms of protecting water body status the site does not build over any culverts and the SUDs provided means that the development would not adversely affect Johnston Loch. 8.40 Adequate provision can be made for the development and maintenance of car parking and landscaping can be controlled by suitably worded conditions. 8.41 For the reasons discussed above it is considered that the application accords with the provisions of Policy EDQ3. 8.42 Taking the foregoing discussion into account, it is considered that the proposal complies with the relevant policy provisions of National Planning Framework 4 and the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan. Material Considerations Gartcosh Local Place Plan 2025 8.43 Gartcosh Local Place Plan is a material consideration in assessing this application and is a community- led framework outlining the vision, priorities, and actions for the village’s development and is formally registered with North Lanarkshire Council. Page 22 of 48
Page 23
8.44 The Plan shows an icon indicating the site as Zoned for Community Use (Retail Hub). The plan goes on to advise that should retail development not be brought forward on this site then it should be zoned for community use and should not be developed for further housing. It also shares an aspiration that, should retail development be brought forward, direct discussions would be held with the community and the owners/developers and that community consultation information can assist in the retail development in terms of location and proximity to housing. This would be a matter for the parties that prepared the the Gartcosh Local Place plan to take forward. The planning application process provides for neighbour notification and press advert to allow any representations to be made on the application. 8.45 It is considered that the proposed development largely aligns with the Local Place Plan for the area. 9. Representations 9.1 22 letters of objection (more than 1 objection received from 3 addresses) received with concerns summarised and addressed in turn below: 9.2 Design and layout of the site It is acknowledged that units are of standard retail design; however, this is commensurate with similar modern retail developments of a similar scale. The material palette has been chosen to reflect the nearby residential developments and is considered acceptable. The car park is located centrally; however, the vehicular access onto Skipness Road is in a set location and cannot be moved. This layout serves the retail units at both ends of the site and prevents car parking adjacent to residential properties. The layout also maintains a view through the site from Skipness Road. Objections include reference to a lack of inclusion of an area where residents can gather. This site within the wider Community Growth Area is identified for retail development which is to be brought forward by the private sector and therefore there is no planning requirement to include such an area. 9.3 Loss of Character and Residential Setting The proposed development fulfils the Strategic Development Vision that a local centre be provided to serve the Community Growth Area the proposal is not considered to be of such a scale and nature that would detract from the residential character of the area. 9.4 Increased Traffic and Congestion The application is supported by a Transport Assessment which demonstrates that the proposed development can be accommodated at this site and NLC Infrastructure and Transportation have no concerns or objections in relation to this matter. 9.5 Suitability of the wider road network to accommodate the development (including junction to A725 and traffic calming requirement on Skipness Road) The Transport Assessment, discussed above, demonstrated that the wider network could accommodate the proposed development on this site without requiring any mitigation measures in the wider area such as traffic calming. Furthermore, no requirement for upgrading the junction with the A725 was identified through this Transport Assessment or the previous Transport Assessments carried Page 23 of 48
Page 24
out in support of planning permissions 14/01849/PPP and 16/01850/MSC which included provision for retail development on this site. 9.6 Safety of Vehicles, Pedestrians and Pets in the surrounding area It is acknowledged that as the site is currently vacant the development will increase traffic to the area; however, as noted above access to the site is suitable for vehicles as is the wider road network and in terms of pedestrian safety there are footways along Skipness Road. Pet safety would be a matter for pet owners. 9.7 Lack of pedestrian connections It is considered that existing the pedestrian footways along Skipness Road and Gour Place linking to the footway and boardwalk area are acceptable. The northern boundary is also largely bounded by a SuDS pond and there are site level differences which constrain the site. 9.8 Privacy and Overlooking (including Land raising) Consideration has been given to privacy and overlooking concerns. It is not considered that the development will cause unacceptable adverse privacy and overlooking of the adjacent residential properties. The terraced row Units 2-5 have the rear elevation facing towards properties on Duror Drive. The rear elevation includes a single rear access door for each unit and no windows. The rear elevation is approximately 11m metres to the rear garden boundaries of Duror Drive and each property then has its own 10 metre long rear garden. The 11 metre strip would have landscaping along this boundary including 9 standard native trees along this boundary. It is not anticipated that there would be high activity levels to the rear of these units. The site is designed in such a way that the terraced retail unit would offer a visual screening of the central carpark (where most activity would take place) from those residential properties immediately behind the proposed terrace. Objections are raised specifically relating to land raising and overlooking from the carpark to properties on Duror Drive; however, it is considered that due to the intervening distance from the car park, the obscured angle and intervening planting that this would not cause an unacceptable impact on privacy or overlooking. 9.9 Increase of people to the area It is acknowledged that the development of this site for retail use will increase activity in the area; however, the development is of a scale that is designed to serve the local area and has not been designed to attract visitors from outwith the area. 9.10 Noise (from delivery vehicles, refrigeration and ventilation systems, waste collection and staff operations) The application is supported by a Noise Assessment and this has been reviewed by the Council’s Protective Services team and found to be acceptable subject to planning conditions restricting delivery times and requiring the submission of mechanical plant details to ensure that there is no unacceptable adverse impact on residential amenity. 9.11 Impact on Sunlight Taking the proposed height of the units into account the properties on Duror Drive are sufficient distance from Units 2-5 (approximately 21m) that sunlight/daylight would not be unacceptably Page 24 of 48
Page 25
impacted upon. Similarly, properties on Gour Drive are sufficient distance from Unit 1 (approximately 23m) that sunlight/daylight would not be unacceptably impacted upon in terms of their front elevations. 9.12 Overdevelopment of the Site It is considered that the proposal does not represent over development of the site with adequate landscaping, parking and is off-set from boundaries. 9.13 Light pollution A planning condition is recommended to be applied to require submission of the proposed lighting scheme prior to development starting on site. 9.14 Insufficient screening and landscape mitigation The proposed landscaping includes a mix of ornamental shrub planting, tree planting, hedge planting, grass seeding (with pollinator mix) and pockets of native thicket mix. It is considered that this offers suitable landscaping for the proposed development with trees offering screening along the eastern boundary. It is considered that the landscaping scheme has a proportionate increase in biodiversity at the site. NLC Greenspace has confirmed that the proposed landscaping is acceptable and this can be secured by condition. 9.15 No specified boundary treatment The boundary treatments in terms of fencing or hedging are shown on the landscaping plans and can be secured by condition. 9.16 Loss of Green Space The site is currently vacant, was previously used as a site compound whilst surrounding residential development was carried out and has been identified for retail development for a number of years. It is not considered that this site represents a significant loss of Green Space and will be landscaped. 9.17 Impact on local biodiversity and wildlife (including bio security matters) The applicant submitted the required ecological surveys for the site which conclude that it is of limited ecological value and there is no presence of European Protected Species. NLC Greenspace was consulted on the surveys and has confirmed that they are acceptable. The proposed landscaping is considered acceptable and includes biodiversity measures which can be secured via planning condition. Any litter or any treatment of vermin does not fall within the planning remit but would fall to the developer and future occupiers. 9.18 The development would block or limit views for residents in the area It is acknowledged that the development will change current views towards the Loch; however, the views from individual properties are not a material planning consideration. In terms of wider views, the car park being centrally located allows a view through to the loch. 9.19 Too much parking The level of parking provision is at a level required to serve the scale of the development. Page 25 of 48
Page 26
9.20 Car park would become a focal point for antisocial behaviour The proposed layout adopts a Secured By Design layout. The car park is centrally located within the layout with passive surveillance offered by the proposed units. There is also an element of overlooking from neighbouring residential properties. Any future antisocial behaviour occurring within the site falls to the management of the development and is outwith the remit of planning legislation. 9.21 Odour, Waste, Litter and Vermin There are no odour producing uses (such as hot food takeaway or industrial manufacturing) included in this development. The proposed layout provides bin stores to serve the development. The applicant has confirmed that waste will be collected under private contract arrangement to serve the terraced units and that the national operator will service Unit 1 in line with their current procedures. It is for the developer and occupiers to ensure that the site is maintained and any future issues relating to litter or vermin are addressed. 9.22 Lack of Community Engagement This application is classed as a local development and as such no formal Pre-Application Consultation exercise is required under planning legislation. The application has been advertised in the local press and neighbour notification carried out which meets the terms of the regulations. 9.23 Lack of capacity in infrastructure (already over-flowing sewers) Scottish Water has confirmed that there is capacity to accommodate the development within its foul waste treatment plan. A condition securing confirmation that the development meets the requirements of Scottish Water in terms of foul drainage can be applied. 9.24 Turning to the 5 letters of support the points stated are summarised below: • the creation of local jobs • increased local amenities that are much needed in the area • increase local spending • sustainability and reduced car dependency • long-standing planning intent 9.25 In terms of these points it is acknowledged that the development will result in jobs being created, the development will support the local area in terms of local retail provision, it will encourage local spending, is within a walkable distance for local residents and fulfils the long-term vision of the Strategic Development Framework in terms of the Community Growth Area. 9.26 Consideration has been given to the points raised in the representations; however, these raise no material considerations that would outweigh the planning policy assessment above or merit the refusal of the application. 10. Conclusions Taking the above into account, it is considered that the proposed development is in accordance with the relevant policies of the development plan. The design and layout is of high quality, would deliver the local retail provision required to support the wider community growth area and would integrate satisfactorily with the surrounding area. The technical supporting documents demonstrate that the proposal can be accommodated within the site without adverse impacts on the surrounding area. Page 26 of 48
Page 27
Consideration has been given to the comments from consultees. No matters have been raised which would merit the refusal of the application and appropriate conditions can be applied to address matters raised. Due consideration has also been given to issues raised in objections but these are not upheld and do not carry such weight as to merit the refusal of the application. On this basis, it is recommended that planning permission be granted subject to conditions. Page 27 of 48
Page 28
Application No: 26/00528/FUL Proposed Development: Change of Use of Unit to Use Class 11: Leisure and Recreation for Use as a Fitness Cycle Studio Site Address: 1 Badenheath Place Westfield Cumbernauld G68 9HX Date Registered: 18th June 2026 Applicant: Revolution Spin Agent: CBRE Bothwell Street Glasgow G2 7ER Application Level: Local Application Contrary to Development Plan: Yes Ward: 02 Cumbernauld North DanishAshraf,Tom Fisher, Alan Masterton,Gordon Currie Representations: 1 letter of representation received. Recommendation: Approve Subject to Conditions Reasoned Justification: The proposed development is acceptable as it could be accommodated within the site without adversely affecting the general amenity of this light industrial area. As such, the proposal is considered to accords with the policy provisions of the Development Plan. Page 28 of 48
Page 29
Reproduced by permission of the Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. © Crown Copyright and database right 2009. All rights reserved. Ordnance Survey Licence number 100023396. Planning Application: 26/00528/FUL Name (of applicant): Revolution Spin Site Address: 1 Badenheath Place Westfield Cumbernauld G68 9HX Development: Change of Use of Unit to Use Class 11: Leisure and Recreation for Use as a Fitness Cycle Studio Page 29 of 48
Page 30
Proposed Conditions: - 1. That the development hereby permitted shall be carried out strictly in accordance with the approved details submitted as part of the application and no change to those details shall be made without prior written approval of the Planning Authority. Reason: To clarify the drawings on which this approval of permission is founded. 2. That, notwithstanding the provisions of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (Scotland) Order 1992, the premises shall be used as a fitness studio and for no other purposes (including any other Use Classes in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) (Scotland) Order 1997). Should this use cease than the unit shall revert back to use class 6 (Storage and Distribution). Reason: To enable the Planning Authority to retain effective control and to ensure the building remains an ancillary facility to benefit the operation and viability of the adjacent industrial area. 3. Noise associated with the completed development shall not give rise to a noise level, assessed with the windows open, within any dwelling or noise sensitive buildings in excess of the equivalent to Noise Rating Curve (N.R.C.) 30 between 07.00 hours and 23.00 hours and N.R.C. 25 at all other times. Reason: To define the permission Page 30 of 48
Page 31
Background Papers: Consultation Responses: Email from Environmental Health (including Pollution Control) dated 14 July 2026. Response from Food Safety / Business Regulations dated 16 July 2026. Email from National Air Traffic Services (Safeguarding) Mailbox dated 24 June 2026. Email from Scottish Gas Network dated 19 June 2026. Contact Information: Any person wishing to inspect these documents should contact Alex Reid at 01236 632500 Report Date: 12th August 2026 Page 31 of 48
Page 32
APPLICATION NO. 26/00528/FUL REPORT 1. Site Description The application site comprises of a vacant industrial unit located within a group of mixed sized industrial/leisure units at Badenheath Place, Westfield, Cumbernauld. This forms part of an established industrial area which in recent times has allowed the introduction of leisure uses (e.g. arts and crafts centre). The unit was formerly used as an arts and crafts centre which includes a community drop-in and recycling and retail element. The application site is bounded by industrial and leisure units to the south, similar units to the north, east and west with associated car parking to the north and east. 2. Proposed Development 2.1 The application seeks planning permission for the change of use of unit to a Class 11 (Assembly and Leisure) Fitness Studio, with no physical alterations proposed. A planning condition is attached ensuring that, upon cessation of the approved use, the unit reverts back to the originally intended industrial use. 2.2 The proposal will facilitate the relocation of the existing Revolution Spin Studio which is located at 10 Badenheath Place which is opposite the proposal site. 3. Applicant’s Supporting Information 3.1 There was additional information submitted as part of the submission. The following information can be summarised as follows: 3.2 The proposal seeks planning permission for the change of use of vacant Unit 1 Badenheath Place to a Class 11 spin cycle studio, facilitating the relocation and expansion of the established Revolution Spin business, which has operated within Westfield Industrial Estate since 2022. 3.3 Market evidence demonstrates that the unit is unsuitable for modern industrial occupiers, lacking roller shutter access and retaining a leisure-style fit-out. Despite Westfield being 99% occupied, interest in the unit has come primarily from leisure and non-industrial operators, supporting the proposed use. 3.4 A sequential assessment under Policies PP1A and PP2A found no suitable or available town centre or edge-of-centre premises capable of accommodating the business's operational requirements, floor area needs, and established customer base. The proposed unit was identified as the only suitable available premises in the Westfield, Wardpark and Lenziemill markets. 3.5 The proposal complements an established mix of leisure, business and industrial uses within the Strategic Business Centre and will not prejudice its business function. Traffic movements, parking demand and accessibility remain effectively unchanged as the business is relocating opposite its existing premises. 3.6 The site is located within a designated Strategic Business Centre where Policy 2A supports non- ancillary uses where they can be justified through a sequential assessment, compatibility with surrounding uses, economic benefit, and acceptable transport impacts. The proposal demonstrates that no suitable town centre or edge-of-centre premises were available to accommodate the business's operational requirements and identifies Unit 1 Badenheath Place as the only suitable available unit locally. The proposed use is compatible with the area's established mix of industrial, commercial and leisure occupiers, including several existing Class 11 leisure uses, and will not prejudice the function or attractiveness of the business centre. The relocation will retain an established local business and associated employment while reusing a vacant unit that is considered unattractive to traditional Class 4, 5 and 6 occupiers. As the business is moving from nearby premises within the same estate, parking, accessibility, and traffic movements are expected to remain largely unchanged. Overall, the proposal Page 32 of 48
Page 33
is considered compliant with Policy 2A and the wider objectives of the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan. 3.7 Operational hours will be in line with the existing Revolution Unit. The business will operate within the hours below. • Monday to Thursday 06:00 to 20:00 • Friday 06:00 to 18:00 • Saturday and Sunday 09:00 to 12:00 3.8 The existing parking will be retained for visitor and staff use and access will remain as existing. 4. Site History • 06/00556/FUL Provision of 13 Additional Parking Spaces (permitted 2 May 2006) • 17/01078/FUL Alterations and Change of Use from Office to Storage/Warehouse (Permitted 25 August 2017) • 18/00178/FUL Change of Use From Storage/Warehouse/Office to Leisure and Education Facility including External Alterations (Refused 17 April 2018) • 20/01093/FUL Change of Use to Arts and Crafts Centre including Community Drop-in, Recycling, and a Retail Element (Permitted 19 November 2020) • 20/01113/FUL Change of Use to Arts and Crafts Centre including Community Drop-in, Recycling, and a Retail Element (Withdrawn 21 September 2020) 5. Development Plan 5.1 The development plan consists of National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) adopted on the 13 February and the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan (LDP) adopted 2022. 5.2 The following NPF4 policies are relevant: Policy 7 Local Living and 20 Minute Neighbourhoods, Policy 13 – Sustainable Transport, Policy 14 – Design, Quality and Place, Policy 21 – Play Recreation and Sport. 5.3 Additionally, the following policies within the Local Development Plan are relevant: Placemaking Policies PP 2A Policy, Purpose of Place and AD4 Amount of Development, EDQ1 Site Appraisal and EDQ3 Quality of Development 6. Consultations 6.1 NLC Protective Services were consulted on 6 July 2026. A response was received on 14 July providing comments related to Noise, Lighting and Dust, these have been added as Informatives. 6.2 NLC Food Safety/Business Regulations were consulted on 26 June 2026. A response was received on 16 July 2026 advising the following: • The business premises must comply with the requirements of the Health & Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and regulations made thereunder. • The design, layout and construction of food premises must comply with the requirements of Food Hygiene (Scotland) Regulations 2006 and Retained Regulation (EC) 852/2004 6.3 National Air Traffic Safety were consulted on 19 June 2026. A response was received on 24 June 2026 advising the proposed development does not conflict with their safeguarding criteria. Page 33 of 48
Page 34
6.4 Scottish Gas Network were consulted on 19 June 2026. A response was received on 19 June 2026 advising they have no high-pressure assets within the vicinity. They have no comment or objections. 7. Representations Standard Neighbour notification letters were issued on 19 June 2026 as well as an advert placed in the Cumbernauld News/Kilsyth Chronicles. This was published on 1 July 2026. One letter was received raising the following comments: • Noise relating to business. • Additional parking would be detrimental. 8. Planning Assessment 8.1 Section 25 of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 requires that planning decisions must be made in accordance with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise. The application raises no strategic issues and can be assessed against the local plan. 8.2 NPF4 forms part of the development plan; given the nature and scale of this development, the most relevant considerations are already enshrined in the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan policies (assessed below). The policies within NPF4 that are relevant to the application include Policy 7 Local Living and 20 Minute Neighbourhoods, Policy 13 – Sustainable Transport, Policy 14 – Design, Quality and Place, Policy 21 – Play Recreation and Sport. 8.3 The applicant previously obtained planning permission under application 22/00780/FUL for the change of use of a unit within Badenheath Place to a leisure use. That permission was subsequently implemented, and the business has operated successfully from Badenheath Place since that time. This application seeks to facilitate the relocation of the existing business to an alternative unit within the same locality at Badenheath Place. Given that the operation is already established in the area, there have been no known issues relating to parking, traffic generation or noise nuisance, and it is not considered that the proposed relocation would give rise to any materially different impacts. 8.4 Policy 13 – Sustainable Transport seeks to encourage development that is sustainably located, reduces the need to travel unsustainably, makes use of existing transport infrastructure, and supports walking, wheeling, cycling, and public transport. Development should not result in unacceptable impacts on the transport network or road safety. Assessment: As the business already operates within the immediate locality, the proposal is not expected to generate additional traffic movements or materially alter travel patterns. The development makes effective use of an existing commercial unit within an established business area and is not considered likely to result in adverse impacts on the local road network, parking provision, or road safety. The proposal therefore accords with the objectives of NPF4 Policy 13: Sustainable Transport. 8.5 Policy 14 – Design, Quality and Place seeks to ensure development is well designed, compatible with its surroundings, and contributes positively to place quality. Development should make productive use of land and buildings, be adaptable, and not adversely affect the amenity or character of an area. Assessment: The proposed change of use would facilitate the occupation of an existing vacant building by a fitness cycle studio currently operating from nearby premises within Badenheath Place. The proposal involves no external alterations and would retain existing access and parking arrangements. The use is compatible with the character of the surrounding area, where a range of commercial, leisure and fitness uses are already established, and would secure the productive reuse of a vacant building. The proposal is therefore considered to accord with the requirements of NPF4 Policy 14: Design, Quality and Place. Page 34 of 48
Page 35
8.6 Policy 15 - Local Living and 20 Minute Neighbourhoods supports development that contribute to local living by maintaining and improving access to services, facilities, employment, and community uses within reasonable distances of where people live. The policy seeks to create places where daily needs can be met locally and where opportunities exist to access services by walking, wheeling, cycling, and public transport. Assessment: The proposal involves the relocation of an existing fitness cycle studio from elsewhere within Badenheath Place to Unit 1 Badenheath Place. The development would retain a leisure and fitness facility within the locality, support health, and wellbeing objectives, and make effective use of an existing commercial unit. Given that the business already operates within the immediate area, local accessibility to the service would be maintained. The proposal is therefore considered to accord with the aims and objectives of NPF4 Policy 15: Local Living and 20 Minute Neighbourhoods 8.7 Policy 21 – Play Recreation and Sport seeks to encourage, promote and facilitate opportunities for play, recreation, and sport, recognising their contribution to physical health, mental wellbeing, and community development. The policy supports proposals that protect, maintain, or enhance sport and recreational facilities and improve opportunities for participation in physical activity. Assessment: The development would maintain and enhance the provision of indoor sport and recreational opportunities within the locality, supporting physical activity and community wellbeing. The proposal would not result in the loss of any existing recreation facility and would bring a vacant unit back into productive use. Accordingly, the proposal is considered to accord with the aims and objectives of NPF4 Policy 21: Play, Recreation and Sport. 8.8 PP 2A Policy, Purpose of Place seeks to safeguard land and premises for Class 4 (Business), Class 5 (General Industrial) and Class 6 (Storage and Distribution) uses, whilst allowing other uses where they can be justified and where they do not prejudice the primary business and industrial function of the area. Assessment: The proposal would facilitate the relocation of Revolution Spin from Unit 10 Badenheath Place to Unit 1 Badenheath Place. As the business is already established within the estate, no material change to the overall mix of uses, traffic generation or amenity impacts is anticipated. Furthermore, the proposal would not prejudice the primary business and industrial function of the Strategic Business Centre, with the existing unit becoming available for alternative business or industrial occupation. The proposal would bring a vacant unit back into productive use, retain employment and support continued economic activity within the estate. Accordingly, the proposal is considered to accord with Policy 2A of the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan. It is noted that planning permission 22/00780/FUL was granted subject to a condition which stipulated that, should the leisure use cease at any future date, the unit would revert to a Class 6 (Storage and Distribution) use, thereby safeguarding the long-term business and industrial function of the Strategic Business Centre. The same condition shall be implemented for the proposed site. 8.9 AD4 Amount of Development seeks to ensure that the scale and amount of development proposed is appropriate to the site and its surroundings and that development does not exceed the capacity of the site or result in unacceptable impacts on infrastructure, amenity, or the character of the area. Assessment: The proposal involves the relocation of an existing fitness cycle studio from Unit 10 Badenheath Place to Unit 1 Badenheath Place and does not include any extension or increase in the building footprint. As the business is already established within the estate, the proposal is not anticipated to result in a significant increase in activity, traffic generation or demand on local infrastructure. The scale and nature of the development are considered proportionate to the site and surrounding area, and the proposal is therefore consistent with the requirements of Policy AD4: Amount of Development. Page 35 of 48
Page 36
8.10 Policy EDQ1 (Environmental Quality) of the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan seeks to ensure that development is of a high-quality design, is compatible with surrounding land uses, respects its context, and does not adversely affect the character or amenity of the surrounding area. The policy also requires consideration of access, parking, servicing, and integration with the existing built environment. Assessment: The proposal is broadly compliant with Policy EDQ1 as it reuses an existing unit without materially affecting the character, appearance, or function of the surrounding area 8.11 Policy EDQ3 (Design and Accessibility) seeks to ensure that development does not result in unacceptable impacts on the amenity of neighbouring occupiers through matters such as noise, disturbance, traffic generation and parking demand. The proposal complies with Policy EDQ3, as there is no evidence that the proposed change of use would result in unacceptable impacts on the amenity of neighbouring properties. Furthermore, the fitness cycle studio is an established business already operating within Badenheath Place, Westfield, and the application relates to its relocation to an alternative unit within the same area rather than the introduction of a new use. 8.12 The matters raised in the letters of objection are addressed in turn below. • Noise issues Response: NLC Protective Services were consulted and commented on potential noise issues. This has been added as a condition to prevent any detrimental impact to the neighbouring properties. • Additional parking would be detrimental. Response: This is a relocation of an existing business with Badenheath Place. There will be no additional parking requirements, and the existing parking will not change with the relocation of the business. 8.13 Whilst the proposal is considered to be contrary to the development plan, it is important to note that the business has been operating from Badeneath Place since 2022 and is simply seeking to relocate within the same commercial area, moving from No. 10 to No. 1. Furthermore, the surrounding area accommodates a number of leisure and commercial businesses and is not characterised by heavy industrial uses. Over time, the area has evolved to support a broader range of commercial activities and the presence of these businesses contributes to the established commercial character of the locality. 9. Conclusions In conclusion, considering all the circumstances relevant to this application, the proposed development is considered acceptable due to the existing leisure facilities already operating within the area. The proposal will not have a detrimental effect on the neighbouring properties and character of the surrounding area, therefore, the proposed development complies with the relevant policies within National Planning Framework and within the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan 2022. Taking account of the provisions of the development plan and all other material considerations, it is recommended that permission be granted subject to conditions. Page 36 of 48
Page 37
Application No: 26/00602/FUL Proposed Development: Formation of a smallholding with a residential lodge. Site Address: Land At Meadowfield Road Longriggend Date Registered: 16th June 2026 Applicant: Mr Thomas Williams Meadowfield Fishery Meadowfield Road Upperton Airdire ML6 7SA Agent: Planning Services UK 37 Dyfrig Street Shotts ML7 4DQ Application Level: Local Application Contrary to Development Plan: Yes Ward: 08 Airdrie North Alan Beveridge, Sophia Coyle, Henry Emerson Dunbar and Richard Alan Sullivan Representations: 8 letters of representation received. Recommendation: Refuse Reasoned Justification: The proposal is unacceptable in terms of the development plan as it does not meet the criteria set out in the relevant policies. It is considered that the proposed development at this location would not represent a development that the National Planning Framework Policies and North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan intends to support within the designated Greenbelt. Page 37 of 48
Page 38
Reproduced by permission of the Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. © Crown Copyright and database right 2009. All rights reserved. Ordnance Survey Licence number 100023396. Planning Application: 26/00602/FUL Name (of applicant): Mr Thomas Williams Site Address: Land At Meadowfield Road Longriggend Development: Formation of a Smallholding with a Residential Lodge Page 38 of 48
Page 39
Recommendation: Refuse for the Following Reasons:- 1. The proposal is contrary to National Planning Framework 4 - NPF4 Policies 8 (Green Belt), 17 (Rural Homes) and 29 (Rural Development) in that it does not comply with the criteria set out in the policies that would justify a dwelling/chalet and associated smallholding development at this location. 2. The proposal is contrary to the North Lanarkshire Development Plan Policies PP4 and AD 4 (Green Belt) in that it does not comply with the criteria set out in the policies that would justify a dwelling/chalet and associated smallholding development at this location. 3. That the proposal is contrary to North Lanarkshire Development Plan Policies EQ1 and EQ3 (Quality of Development) due to impact on the character of the landscape. Page 39 of 48
Page 40
Background Papers: Consultation Responses: Coal Mining Remediation Authority received 18th June 2026. North Lanarkshire Council Traffic & Transportation received 2nd July 2026. North Lanarkshire Council Environmental Health (including Pollution Control) received 17th of June 2026. North Lanarkshire Council NLC Greenspace – No response submitted. Contact Information: Any person wishing to inspect these documents should contact Paul Williams at 01236 632500 Report Date: 3rd September 2026 Page 40 of 48
Page 41
APPLICATION NO. 26/00602/FUL REPORT 1. Site Description 1.1 The site lies in open countryside approximately mid- way between the settlements of Upperton and Longriggend and is situated where Meadowfield Road bends from east – west to south at approximate right angles. The site forms part of a larger area of land which has a fishery development to the north currently under development. The site lies at the southeastern corner of this much larger area under the ownership of the applicant. 1.2 The site lies in a sweeping and undulating landscape and slopes gently down in a northerly direction. As the site is rectangular and parallel to the road, it is relatively flat and consists of uncut grassland and an existing agricultural access gate with a hedgerow along its southern boundary lining an access track to a farmstead to the east. The proposed application site is approximately 96.6 metres long and 21.4 metres deep forming a rectangular area of approximately 2067 square metres. 2. Proposed Development 2.1 The proposal is to form a smallholding using the existing access to form an access road along and parallel to the southern boundary of the site. This access road would also have parking and turning facilities at its eastern end serving a proposed single storey modular cabin with decking designed in a similar way to a large static caravan with two bedrooms, a living area and toilet and kitchen facilities. 3. Applicant’s Supporting Information 3.1 The applicant’s planning statement advances that the proposal is for a small modest smallholding with associated chalet/cabin required in support of the keeping of farm animals and equestrian grazing. The statement further submits that the proposal is rural in character, visually contained, functionally linked to the land, compatible with smallholding and grazing activity and capable of integrating into the existing countryside setting and, as such complies with the relevant policies. The main point expounded is that the chalet is required to provide effective animal husbandry. 4. Site History 4.1 The application site has no directly relevant planning history although the greater site owned by the applicant has the following including this application:- • 22/00407/FUL Use of land as coarse fishery with managers house, customer welfare unit, storage containers, the construction of a coarse fishery pond, landscaping, infrastructure, area of hard standing for ancillary parking and access • 23/00279/PRN Relocation of spoil material to adjoining land (prior notification) • 24/00084/FUL Holding pond to serve adjacent approved course fishery (granted approval under planning permission 22/00407/FUL. • 24/00948/FUL Two holiday lodges, fishery pond and associated infrastructure. • 25/01313/S42 Section 42 Application to vary Condition 1 (Approved Plans) and Condition 7 (lodge occupation restriction) of Planning Permission 24/00948/FUL - Two Holiday Lodges, Fishery Pond & Associated Infrastructure • 26/00602/FUL Formation of a smallholding with a residential lodge. Page 41 of 48
Page 42
5. Development Plan 5.1 NPF4 forms part of the development plan. As such the proposed development requires to be assessed against the provisions and policies of both NPF4 and The North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan. The most relevant considerations some already enshrined in the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan policies are set out below. This application can therefore be considered against the policy provisions of the North Lanarkshire Local Development, and the National planning Framework 4 as follows:- National Planning Framework 4 The policies within NPF4 that are most relevant to the application are : • Policy 8 (Green belt) • Policy 17 (Rural Homes) • Policy 29 (Rural Development) North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan 2022 • PP 4 and AD 4 (Green Belt) • EDQ 1 to 3 (Quality of Development) 5.2 The development plan now comprises National Planning Framework 4 and the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan, under which the site is designated as being within the Green Belt. Policies (including NPF4 Policy 17 - Rural Homes and NLLDP policies PP4 and AD4 - Green Belt) impose restrictions on the construction of new houses (chalet/cabin) in the Green Belt. 5.3 In considering this planning application for the proposed smallholding development, it should be noted that the provisions of NPF4 Policy 8 significantly aligns with the local plan Green Belt policy PP 4, the application of this policy can therefore be quickly asserted as equivalent in its intent to the current policy position for assessment of this application. Policy 8 states that - a) Development proposals within a green belt designated within the LDP will only be supported if: i) they are for: • development associated with agriculture, woodland creation, forestry and existing woodland (including community woodlands); • residential accommodation required and designed for a key worker in a primary industry within the immediate vicinity of their place of employment where the presence of a worker is essential to the operation of the enterprise, or retired workers where there is no suitable alternative accommodation available; • horticulture, including market gardening and directly connected retailing, as well as community growing; • outdoor recreation, play and sport or leisure and tourism uses; and developments that provide opportunities for access to the open countryside (including routes for active travel and core paths); • flood risk management (such as development of blue and green infrastructure within a “drainage catchment” to manage/mitigate flood risk and/or drainage issues); • essential infrastructure or new cemetery provision; • minerals operations and renewable energy developments; • intensification of established uses, including extensions to an existing building where that is ancillary to the main use; • the reuse, rehabilitation and conversion of historic environment assets; or • one-for-one replacements of existing permanent homes. and Part 2 – National Planning Policy ii) the following requirements are met: • reasons are provided as to why a green belt location is essential and why it cannot be located on an alternative site outwith the green belt; • the purpose of the green belt at that location is not undermined; • the proposal is compatible with the surrounding established countryside and landscape character; • the proposal has been designed to ensure it is of an appropriate scale, massing and external appearance, and uses materials that minimise visual impact on the green belt as far as possible; and • there will be no significant long-term impacts on the environmental quality of the green belt. Page 42 of 48
Page 43
5.4 In considering this planning application for the proposed residential development, it should be noted that the provisions of NPF4 Policy 17 significantly aligns the local plan Green Belt policy PP 4, the application of this policy can therefore be quickly asserted as equivalent in its intent to the current policy position for assessment of this application. Policy 17 states that - a) Development proposals for new homes in rural areas will be supported where the development is suitably scaled, sited and designed to be in keeping with the character of the area and the development: i. ii. iii. is on a site allocated for housing within the LDP; reuses brownfield land where a return to a natural state has not or will not happen without intervention; reuses a redundant or unused building; iv. is an appropriate use of a historic environment asset or is appropriate enabling development to secure the future of historic environment assets; v. is demonstrated to be necessary to support the sustainable management of a viable rural business or croft, and there is an essential need for a worker (including those taking majority control of a farm business) to live permanently at or near their place of work; vi. is for a single home for the retirement succession of a viable farm holding; vii. is for the subdivision of an existing residential dwelling; the scale of which is in keeping with the character and infrastructure provision in the area; or viii. reinstates a former dwelling house or is a one-for-one replacement of an existing permanent house. b) Development proposals for new homes in rural areas will consider how the development will contribute towards local living and take into account identified local housing needs (including affordable housing), economic considerations and the transport needs of the development as appropriate for the rural location. c) Development proposals for new homes in remote rural areas will be supported where the proposal: i. supports and sustains existing fragile communities; ii. supports identified local housing outcomes; and iii. is suitable in terms of location, access, and environmental impact. d) Development proposals for new homes that support the resettlement of previously inhabited areas will be supported where the proposal: i. is in an area identified in the LDP as suitable for resettlement; ii. is designed to a high standard; iii. responds to its rural location; and iv. is designed to minimise greenhouse gas emissions as far as possible. 5.5 NPF 4 Policies 1,2, relating to the nature crisis and climate mitigation and 29 Rural Development that the applicant sites in the submitted Planning Statement are assessed in paragraph 8.6 below. 5.6 Policy PP 4 states that North Lanarkshire Council will support developments for agriculture, forestry, recreation, or developments that need a non-urban location, including, where appropriate, Visitor Economy related development. Where specified by this Policy, applicants will be expected to provide the identified appraisals or assessments, which should be submitted with any planning application to allow consideration of the proposal. The purpose of the Green Belt is to protect the setting of communities, support regeneration by directing growth to urban areas, protect natural assets and provide a high quality environment. North Lanarkshire Council will encourage development appropriate for a Green Belt location by resisting development that is not for agriculture, forestry, recreation, tourism, or needs a Green Belt location, whilst allocating appropriate land for urban expansion. With regard to development that needs a Green Belt location, the need will be balanced against any adverse effects on the purposes of the Green Belt. Assessment of Appropriateness of any proposal for development (excluding Householder Development), or change of use, within the Green Belt, should include, but not be limited to: • support by a business plan, or statement justifying that the development is compatible with the Green Belt. • a statement that the proposal is not best suited to being located in a Centre, or General Urban Area, taking the Town Centres First Sequential Approach where appropriate. • a statement on the scale and nature of existing development in the Green Belt (all proposals require to satisfy the provisions of all EDQ Policies). • evidence that there is a specific locational requirement for the proposal. • evidence that the proposal will result in significant economic benefit. • its impact on travel patterns and accessibility by sustainable modes of transport (all proposals require to satisfy the provisions of Policy CI and Policy EDQ 3). The Council will resist other forms of development, through the full range of Policies in the Plan. Any application for planning permission will be subject to appropriate assessment of its impacts through the limits defined in the Amount of Development policy. All proposed development will be subject to assessment against relevant legislation and all other Policies in the Plan. Page 43 of 48
Page 44
5.7 Policy AD 4 (Amount of Development in the Green Belt) assesses the potential impact of Green Belt appropriate uses. Where specified by this Policy, applicants will be expected to provide the identified appraisals or assessments, which should be submitted with any planning application to allow consideration of the proposal. Appropriateness refers to the nature and scale of the development and whether it would be more appropriate in a Land Use Character Area designated for the size and class of development proposed, or whether there are considerations which can be introduced to justify that the development is appropriate for the Green Belt, supported by a business plan, or statement. Assessment of amount of any development, or change of use within the Green Belt should include, but not be limited to: • a statement on whether the proposal is an intensification of an existing use. • its impact on land supplies, including all housing proposals over 10 units on the Housing Land Supply. • evidence regarding the existence of suitable alternative sites. Development not meeting these requirements will not be supported. 5.8 Policies EDQ 1 and EDQ 3 (Quality of Development). Policy EDQ 1 states that any proposed development will require to be appraised in terms of the site and its surroundings to ensure it will integrate successfully into the local area and avoid harm to neighbouring amenity. The matters to be addressed in the appraisal include but are not limited to: • massing, height, style, finishing materials of any building or buildings on the site and surrounding Land Use Character Area • orientation and topography of the site and surrounding Land Use Character Area • mixture of uses in the Land Use Character Area • building lines, plot ratios, groupings, types of enclosure (e.g. fences, walls, hedges), landmarks in the Land Use Character Area • public utilities, e.g. underground services (including the fibre network), drainage systems, overhead power lines • public services available locally, e.g. schools, public transport, play/recreation provision • accessibility by a range of sustainable transport modes • lighting - day, night, seasonal variation of use, security arrangements, informal supervision • ground stability and contamination on the site and surrounding Land Use Character Area • existence and quality of connections and access including site and building entrances, roads, paths and visuals on the site and surrounding Land Use Character Area • Green Network, landscape character and quality on the site and surrounding Land Use Character Area • impacts associated with the holistic water environment and flood risk • biodiversity of plants and animals on the site and surrounding Land Use Character Area • heritage, or amenity value of buildings or structures above or below ground on the site and surrounding Land Use Character Area • the character and scale of any building clusters in rural areas • the nature and types of features to be safeguarded or enhanced on the site and surrounding Land Use Character Area • requirement for any additional assessments on the site and surrounding Land Use Character Area • the potential for a proposed development (particularly business uses) to co-locate and integrate with existing or proposed energy and waste innovations • the potential for installation and operation of low and zero-carbon generating technologies in new, refurbished or re-purposed buildings. • the existence of and impact of or on “Bad Neighbour” Development on the site and surrounding Land Use Character Area. Bad Neighbour uses are defined in Statutory Instrument 1992 No.224 (S.18) of the Town and Country Planning (General Development Procedure) (Scotland) Order 1992 Schedule 7. 5.9 Policy EDQ 3 states that development will only be permitted where high standards of site planning and sustainable design are achieved. Planning Applications will need to demonstrate that the proposed development takes account of the site appraisal carried out as a requirement of Policies EDQ 1 a. It further states that any development should successfully address siting; overall layout; density; form; scale; height; massing; proportion; detailing; colour; materials. b. Providing a safe, pleasant, inclusive, convenient and welcoming development addressing: personal safety, security and crime prevention; adaptability (including, as appropriate, to the effects of Climate Change and for residential development for specialist provision); sustainable, safe, secure, and convenient access into and through the development that is easy to move around, attractive to pedestrians, cyclists, and people with disabilities; integration with public transport, green networks and wider Page 44 of 48
Page 45
links; sustainable access for cars where required, being safe for all road users, and appropriate parking or traffic calming being well located and integrated. 6. Consultations 6.1 The Coal Mining Remediation Authority has expressed no objection to the proposal on the assumption that the proposed lodge does not require significant groundworks or foundations. 6.2 North Lanarkshire Council Traffic & Transportation has expressed no objections provided that the applicant is reminded that they have a responsibility to provide an appropriate drainage system on site which satisfies Scottish Water and SEPA criteria and ensures that surface water from the site does not drain onto the public road. Also, in terms of access visibility splay, the hedge and fence to the west of the access must be lowered to a maximum height of 1 metre and not allowed to grow above this height or the fence and hedge be repositioned behind the visibility splay in the interests of road safety. 6.3 North Lanarkshire Council Environmental Health (including Pollution Control) has commented that the site is located in a high-risk area for ground gas. Therefore, to ensure potential risks arising from previous land uses around the site have been fully assessed, before the development starts the either of the following is required: The submission of a detailed mine ground gas risk assessment. This report must include development of an initial schematic conceptual site model (CSM) in line with CL:AIRE 2021 recommendations and national guidance. Depending on the findings of the assessment a detailed remediation strategy may be required. Any remediation work required must be completed and verification provided by the developer to the satisfaction of the Local Authority.or The installation of a CS3 membrane in accordance with CIRIA 735. If this is the chosen option we would require a proposal to be submitted, including detail/drawings in respect of the proposed membrane / installation and a suitable verification strategy. However, it is envisaged, that if no significant ground breaking is involved then this would not be required. 6.4 North Lanarkshire Council Greenspace has provided no response – but it is noted that the site has no specific nature conservation designations. 7. Representations 7.1 As a result of the neighbour notification process and the advertisement placed in the Airdrie and Coatbridge Advertiser on the 24th of June, eight representations of objection have been received. The points raised can be summarised as follows:- Objection points • Loss of privacy - that would be caused by a new dwelling at the location. Response: This is not considered to be an issue due to the relative distances involved. There may be a perception that this is the case due to the rural context of the site. • Road safety issues - Increased traffic leading to road safety issues. The access point is at a well known accident black spot. Access to Meadowfield Farm is on a blind bend. The proposed access would share this access. Farm road used daily by heavy agricultural vehicles. Response: North Lanarkshire Council Traffic & Transportation has expressed no objections provided that the applicant is reminded that they have a responsibility to provide an appropriate drainage system on site which satisfies Scottish Water and SEPA criteria and ensures that surface water from the site does not drain onto the public road. Also, in terms of access visibility splay, the hedge and fence to the west of the access must be lowered to a maximum height of 1 metre and not allowed to grow above this height or the fence and hedge be repositioned behind the visibility splay in the interests of road safety. Page 45 of 48
Page 46
• Possible impact on existing agricultural operation at Meadowfield Farm. Response: Due to the small scale of the proposal this is not considered to be an issue. • Future Residential Amenity - Dung Midden 20 metres from proposed dwelling and cattle shed 200 metres from proposed dwelling. This is likely to lead to detrimental impact on the residential amenity of any future residents through odour. Also, this would be further exacerbated by early morning and seasonal work. Response: Agreed. • Impact on rural character - Development not in keeping with rural surroundings. Response: The proposed dwelling would be prominent from the north without the benefit of appropriate screen planting but should be more hidden on the southern boundary due to existing hedgerows. • Viability and necessity for dwelling – ‘The proposed smallholding is very small at only 0.4 Hectares and only suitable for a handful of chickens or perhaps a Llama or some ducks’. Suspect the proposal is a Trojan Horse type scenario for future bigger residential development. ‘There is no justification for a dwelling other than someone wanting to live there. The entire site is just over 1 acre, removing the dwelling and yard it’s not much more than a large garden. The site size falls below the Scottish Government agricultural minimum holding size. For context recognised for 1 acre = 1 cow or 6 sheep or 12 geese. The proposed site would also be severely limited for any equestrian use’. ‘The proposed development introduces a residential lodge into an open rural location where it would not appear to be justified by any genuine agricultural or operational need. The scale of the proposed smallholding raises questions as to whether it is capable of supporting a viable agricultural enterprise requiring an on-site dwelling. Ther proposal therefore risks creating an isolated residential development in the countryside rather than accommodation that is genuinely necessary for rural land management’. Response: The above is noted and agreed. It is considered that the site is not big enough to support a viable smallholding business or therefore to justify a permanent dwelling. • Disregard for Wildlife and Woodlands - Mature woodland within metres of the proposed development with no arboricultural or ecological impact reports shows disregard for existing wildlife and woodland surroundings. Response: This is noted but as this is not on the site, the development would be unlikely to impact on this. • Curlew and Lapwing nest in the hayfield adjacent to the site. We have traditionally not cut this field until later in the season for this reason. Response: This is noted but as this is not on the site, the development would be unlikely to impact on this. 8. Planning Assessment 8.1 Section 25 of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 requires that applications for planning permission be determined in accordance with the policies of the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise. The Development Plan now consists of the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan and the National Planning Framework 4 (NPF 4). Accordingly, the proposed development requires to be assessed against the provisions and policies of both NPF4 and the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan. The application site is designated Green Belt within the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan 2022 (NLLDP). Page 46 of 48
Page 47
8.2 In terms of NPF4, Policy 8 (Green belt) and Policy 17 (Rural Homes) are most relevant. Policy 8 states that - a) Development proposals within a green belt designated within the LDP will only be supported if they are for development associated with agriculture, woodland creation, forestry and existing woodland (including community woodlands); residential accommodation required and designed for a key worker in a primary industry within the immediate vicinity of their place of employment where the presence of a worker is essential to the operation of the enterprise, or retired workers where there is no suitable alternative accommodation available and amongst other things horticulture, including market gardening. In this case, it is considered that the proposed development does not comply with the above criteria. In terms of a possible rural justification, the small scale of the site and smallholding does not represent a viable business prospect in the Green Belt. Although there are no specific minimum size standards for small holdings, the Scottish Government guidance states that smallholdings typically operate on 20 hectares (50 acres) and government grants are available for smallholdings of between 3 and 30 hectares with off farm incomes. This gives a context to assess the scale and potential viability of the proposal. It is therefore considered that the proposal cannot justify full time habitation (in the form of a dwelling/chalet) and as such cannot comply with the related criteria (the first three bullet points above). For the same reason, it is considered that the proposal does not comply with North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan 2022 (NLLDP) Policies PP4 and AD4 (Green Belt). 8.3 Policy 17 (Rural Homes) states that – a) Development proposals for new homes in rural areas will be supported where the development is suitably scaled, sited and designed to be in keeping with the character of the area and the development, amongst other things : i. is on a site allocated for housing within the LDP; ii. reuses brownfield land where a return to a natural state has not or will not happen without intervention; iii. reuses a redundant or unused building; iv. is an appropriate use of a historic environment asset or is appropriate enabling development to secure the future of historic environment assets; v. is demonstrated to be necessary to support the sustainable management of a viable rural business or croft, and there is an essential need for a worker (including those taking majority control of a farm business) to live permanently at or near their place of work; vi. is for a single home for the retirement succession of a viable farm holding; vii. is for the subdivision of an existing residential dwelling; the scale of which is in keeping with the character and infrastructure provision in the area; or viii. reinstates a former dwelling house or is a one-for-one replacement of an existing permanent house. 8.4 Whilst the proposal is for a single chalet/dwelling in the Green Belt associated with a proposed smallholding, it is considered that the proposal does not comply with criteria (i to vii). It is considered that it does not comply with the other criteria and most notably that it is not on a site allocated for housing within the LDP. Furthermore, it is considered that the proposal is not compatible with the surrounding established countryside and landscape character. Page 47 of 48
Page 48
8.5 Policies EDQ 1 and EDQ 3 (Quality of Development). Policies EDQ 1 and 3 state that any proposed development will require to be appraised in terms of the site and its surroundings to ensure it will integrate successfully into the local area and avoid harm to neighbouring amenity. In terms of landscape impact, orientation and topography of the site and the surrounding Land Use Character Area should be taken into account. In this case, it is considered that the proposal without the benefit of buffer planting will be prominently exposed when viewed from the north and therefore does not comply with policies EDQ1 an EDQ3. 8.6 In terms of NPF 4 Policies 1,2, relating to the nature crisis and climate mitigation and 29 Rural Development that the applicant sites in the submitted Planning Statement, it is considered that the proposal has the potential to comply with policies 1 and 2, however little has been provided in terms of proposed elements that would support this. In terms of Policy 29 (Rural Development) supports proposals that contribute to the viability and diversity of rural communities and rural economy. In this case, for the reasons covered in paragraph 8.2 above that in terms of a possible rural justification, the small scale nature of the site and smallholding does not represent a viable business prospect in the Green Belt and can therefore not justify full time habitation (in the form of a dwelling/chalet) and as such cannot comply with the related criteria (the first three bullet points in paragraph 8.2 ) namely :- • development associated with agriculture, woodland creation, forestry and existing woodland (including community woodlands); • residential accommodation required and designed for a key worker in a primary industry within the immediate vicinity of their place of employment where the presence of a worker is essential to the operation of the enterprise, or retired workers where there is no suitable alternative accommodation available; • horticulture, including market gardening and directly connected retailing, as well as community growing. The proposal is therefore considered to be contrary to Policy 29. 9. Conclusions It is therefore concluded that the proposal does not comply with NPF4 Policies 8 (Green belt) and Policy 17 (Rural Homes) and 29 (Rural Development). It is further considered that the proposal does not comply with North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan 2022 policies PP 4 and AD 4 (Green Belt) and EDQ 1 to 3 (Quality of Development). This application is therefore recommended for refusal. Page 48 of 48