A decision by the Scottish Government to overrule South Ayrshire Council and approve a new development in Symington isn’t in the interests of the village or local democracy according to a local MSP.
South Scotland MSP Brian Whittle is making his concerns clear in a letter to Kevin Stewart, the Local Government, Housing and Planning Minister, following an outcry from Symington residents over the Scottish Government’s decision.
Despite a firm rejection from South Ayrshire Council, the Scottish Government is set to grant planning permission for another development in the village. Now, residents have written to MSP Brian expressing their concern that worries around flooding and the ability of local infrastructure to cope haven’t been taken seriously.
Brian Whittle MSP said:
“There is undoubtedly a need for more housing to be built, not only in South Ayrshire but across Scotland. That said, it’s important for the views of local communities and other factors like pressure on roads and flood risks to be taken into account when a applications are being considered.
Considering South Ayrshire Council refused this planning application and the number of local residents contacting me with concerns, I think it’s important to make the Planning Minister aware just how much frustration people feel over this.
Overturning the decision of a local authority is a serious choice to make and it’s important that the Scottish Government understand many residents have serious concerns about the decision that’s been made.”
