Plans for over 60 new homes and shops at Wester Inch in Bathgate have been withdrawn after attracting a wave of opposition from locals.
However, housebuilder Persimmon Homes said that an amended application for the houses at Leyland Road is likely to be tabled.
The Courier reported at the end of last year that Persimmon had lodged a planning application for 61 new homes, along with a mixed-use development of five retail and commercial units.
The plans also earmarked land for a “future community facility” on the site at Leyland Road/Simpson Avenue. But the application attracted over 70 objections, with many saying the proposed development and shops will cause additional traffic – particularly at Wright Place – making the area unsafe for people living nearby.
There were also concerns that nearby Simpson Primary could not cope with the additional children the development would bring.
There was, however, some support for the plans, with many locals also saying the area desperately needs shops.
Scott Carter, Persimmon East Scotland technical director, said the company had followed planning legislation in withdrawing the application so that amendments can be made.
He said: “Following feedback from our public consultation and engagement with the local planning authority, we agreed to withdraw the application at Leyland Road, Bathgate.
“ The decision was made to allow time to address the comments put forward and ensure our proposals achieve the desired outcome for the Wester Inch development.
“The decision is in line with planning legislation.”
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