New development in Queensferry
PLANS to create a massive development at Ferrymuir got the go-ahead this week.
Forth Bridges Business Park Developments, owned by the Evans Property Group, was given the green light to build 130 homes, a sports facility, care home, a community facility and offices by city council planners on Wednesday.
The proposals are a departure from the development plan for the area, as it was initially earmarked for business projects.
But the firm argued there was no demand for a purely commercial scheme, partic-ularly in the current economic climate.
The move will mark the final phase of construction at the 27-acre Ferrymuir site which already features a Tesco supermarket, the Dakota Hotel, Frankie & Benny's, Burger King and NHS 24 offices.
When the decision was taken last year to alter the plan from business to mixed use, people were asked what they would like to see.
While things like a bowling alley or cinema were favoured by many, they were not deemed commercially viable as similar venues operate near Dunfermline.
Queensferry and District Community Council also highlighted the need for leisure and a community-based facility. Care or sheltered housing, special needs housing and affordable homes were also a priority.
Now a care home is to be built and 33 out of the 130 homes will be affordable.
Keith Giblett, vice chairman of Queensferry and District Community Council, said of the decision to grant permission: "We welcome the decision. We have worked with the developer since the original plans were put in place for Ferrymuir in 1997.
''When there was a relaxation on the planning use, the developer held public consultations and we were able to provide import-ant reports offering views from residents of all ages."
Mr Giblett said the reports highlighted a demand for housing for people with learning difficulties within the Queensferry area and he hoped that such people in Queensferry or Edinburgh West would be a priority if and when homes were built.
Mr Giblett said the community council had also entered into an agreement with the developer for a plot of land at the site – measuring 465 square metres (more than 5000 square feet) – and 350,000 to create a community facility. The deal would be tied to an agreed number of homes being built.
Queensferry councillor George Grubb also supported the change of plan: "I welcome Evans in the way they have engaged with the local community throughout the development of the site.
''The affordable housing aspect of the residential development is much needed in rural west Edinburgh."
While there is no time limit for completion of the work, the impending Forth replacement crossing could have an impact as bridge and carriageway works are to continue until at least 2017.
A clause in the planning application will also see the developer contribute 15,000 towards the ''Safer Routes to School'' programme, plus a further 30,000 to help fund minor bus services in Queensferry.
editorial@journalandgazette.co.uk
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Friday 18 May 2012
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