Decision Maker: Kincardine and Mearns Area Committee

Outcome: Grant

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: September 3, 2024

Purpose: Deferred at last meeting to seek comments/attendance at Area Committee from HSE

Content: Committee agreed to grant Change of Use from Class 4 &5 to Class 10 with planning conditions delegated to Planning as on balance the need for the facility in this instance outweighed the risks and the officer recommendation to refuse.   National Planning Framework 4 policies 13: Sustainable transport, 14: Design, quality and place, 15: Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods and Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan (2023) Policy B1 Town Centre Development.  Councillors in this instance gave less weight to the town centre environment which is not suitable for the purpose of the facility, a countryside/quiet location was preferred. Councillors noted that connectivity was less of an issue due to the needs of those attending as outlined by applicants.     Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan (2023) Policy RD1 Providing suitable services - Councillors give additional weight as the facility is vital to additional needs families in the community.  In terms of vehicle access, Members noted that road is quieter since opening of AWPR, road is well sighted and junction adequate for those using site.    National Planning Framework 4 Policy 23: Health and Safety and Policy P4 Hazardous and potentially polluting developments and contaminated land of the Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan (2023) - Councillors believed the perceived risk from pipeline was low, noted the HSE matrix guidance and weightings/categories and believed the applicant demonstrated that robust mitigations were planned with regards to site evacuations, safety and staff ratios.