Mary Carmichael
Argyll and Bute Council · 6 August 2025
Back to Argyll and Bute Local Review Body — 6 August 2025 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
Page 1
Classification: OFFICIAL Mary Carmichael localreviewprocess Thu 6/5/2025 6:05 PM Dear Fiona I appreciate the opportunity to comment on this review. Having considered the related documents, I wish to make the following observations and to record my objection to this proposed development: In relation to the earlier contested development of the neighbouring house known as Am Fasgadh, it appears that the Council is now rowing back on the results of that consultation and ignoring the objections raised then. The Council, taking those objections into account, said at the time that further development in this area would not be permitted. The clear understanding of neighbouring residents and of the wider community was that this undertaking assumed the Council's long-term intention that ribbon development would forever be precluded here. The Glassard township, planned and built over a hundred years ago, is a discrete development of historic significance - given the reasons for its creation and the advancement in housing provision that it represented post-first world war. That is one of many reasons why moves were made to apply very strict design and planning restrictions to the erection of the more recent 'infill' houses; all to preserve the character of what was and is a unique built environment for Colonsay in that chosen location. The development currently proposed does not constitute a natural 'extension' of Glassard. Quite the opposite. It opens a flood-gate for ribbon development on the shoreside of the road for the full extent of the Glebe to Scalasaig. A key concern regarding this current proposal is that the aesthetic quality of the area would be irretrievably and detrimentally affected if development of any kind were to go ahead here. Equally concerning would be the proximity of the proposed wind turbine, not so much on account of flicker as on account of the inevitable noise which would certainly be intrusive in all directions - both loud and almost constant. Experience of works on the pier and new Scalasaig houses has only server to remind residents how noise tends to ricochet around Glassard. The natural assets of this location cannot be overstated - an unspoilt landscape with its unique and magnificent unbroken vista of the sea, shoreline and islands beyond; an expansive view cherished by island residents and marvelled at by the island's many visitors - witness the number of walkers, cyclists and drivers who pause simply to gaze, photograph or paint the uninterrupted scene. All of which is evidence of this area's unique qualities. Accessibility for all is another factor. While Colonsay has many wonderful views and areas of scenic beauty, not all are accessible to everyone. This stretch of coast is an exception being close to the road and offering somewhat elevated perspectives on the surrounding area with both near and distant views. While recent housing development on the island has been most welcome and long-awaited, particularly in providing opportunities for young people needing affordable options, I don't see
Page 2
Classification: OFFICIAL that this application to build at a location which is not appropriate, and which had previously been ruled out by the Council, justifies it now going back on its previous decision to overrule it. To insert any development here would disrupt the harmony of the environment and have a negative impact on the quality of life for islanders and on the sense of well-being which such an area of natural undeveloped beauty gives to those who live with it or who encounter it. This speaks to the evident amenity value of the entire shoreside area of land between Glassard and Scalasaig. Any loss of views and impact on that sense of space will impair such value for future generations. If preserved, it will continue to enhance quality of life and wellbeing for generations to come. Kind regards, Mary Carmichael 1 Glassard