Notice of Review reference
Argyll and Bute Council · 10 October 2024
Back to Argyll and Bute Local Review Body — 10 October 2024 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
Page 1
Notice of Review reference: 24/0012/LRB Planning Reference: 23/02358/PP Rosebank Breadalbane Street Tobermory Isle of Mull PA75 6PD 20/08/2024 I write in support of Kenneth Macquarie under this application / review to extend Rosebank. It seems to me there exists some confusion or contradiction between stated Council and Scottish Government policies, on the application of said policies. A key policy as stated by UK government in 1973 has been (and remains) to reverse depopulation. The 1973 document specifically refers to the situation on Mull. As I'm sure Mr Macquarie has already informed his family are from Mull and he represents long tradition where Islanders leave for employment while remaining rooted in the island and it's life. While the Planning department cannot, on its own, reverse depopulation it can assist while contributing to economic activity. However, the apparent planning department approach seems not to be aligned with a policy to improve economic growth. Indeed the application of policy seems biased against local progress while supporting negative views on Council intention. There needs to be found a better approach; a mechanisms that will enable officers to contribute in a positive way to enabling government policy under existing strategic objectives. In relation to this this specific planning application I would like to make the following points: 1. Policy: While it is absolutely crucial that there is clear policy enabling and controlling the construction of properties it must be balanced with the needs and in line with other policy objectives while having regard to local circumstances. The attempt to universally apply a policy across the diversity that is Argyll and Bute is clearly failing. Perhaps policy should be applied according to local circumstances. A pragmatic approach to avoid rigidity in policy would be to view policy as a ‘Wise man's guide’ adapted to situation and circumstance. 2. Conservation: While it is also essential to retain the character of a location this must be achieved as objectively as possible. A key in defining the character of any location, will be time-period as a reference. Local input is absolutely essential! 3. Consistency: It is difficult at times, when reflecting on Mull, to determine any consistency in planning! I would respectfully submit that this application be allowed as, in and of itself, it represents much that should be allowed to retain aspects of the character of the Island. Andrew Kain
Page 2
Fairways Lodge, Tobermory, PA75 6PS