Lodges on ‘edge of NC500’ near Dingwall given the green light
A PROPOSAL for three lodges “on the edge of the NC500”, near Dingwall, has been granted approval by the Highland Council.
The plans, submitted by Reynolds Architecture on behalf of Mrs R. Campbell, will see the erection of single-storey holiday lodges alongside an agricultural building.
The site location is given as land 145m north-east of Eastside Knockfarrel.
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According to the application, the energy-efficient lodges will provide much-needed income to the croft.
The application states: “A high level of landscaping is proposed to the site to ensure that the lodges blend seamlessly into their surroundings, so much so that they will not be seen from most vantage points. The landscaping will result in a massive increase in biodiversity and extend the existing green belting.”
It goes on to explain how solar panels and rainwater harvesting will feature in the design of the lodges, to reach minimal carbon emissions from the site.
The application continues: “To summarise, this small-scale holiday development is sustainable in design and discreetly situated within the existing landscape.
“This development allows for diversification of an existing croft, providing funding opportunities year-round. The site takes in scenic views of Ben Wyvis and the Knockfarrel Hill and is located on the edge of the NC500, allowing tourists to enjoy all that the Highlands have to offer.”
Although the application was approved by the Highland Council’s Planning Committee on March 24, the proposal did receive two public comments objecting during the consultation period.
One of them stated: “The development is on good croft/agricultural land which in the last past has raised cereal crops (oats) and more recently used as grazing land by a near neighbour. The road serving the east-side of Knockfarrel is not fit to sustain increased traffic — there are no passing places other than private drive-ends, which usually have vehicles parked in them.
“Once all the infrastructure is in place, this crofting/agricultural land will be lost forever and no doubt housing applications will follow.”
