A decision on planning permission for a site that was first proposed 24 years ago has been delayed again as councillors agreed to go and see the area for themselves.
Developers Hansteen Ltd had hoped they would finally get a decision on their plans to build 500 homes alongside commercial and retail development on the 55 hectare site at Gilston Park, Polmont.
But members of Falkirk Council’s planning committee said that such a major application needs careful scrutiny and they prefer to visit the area – which first came to the council’s attention in 1998 – before making a final decision.
For this latest application, the councillors will also be taking note of how the 54-hectare site smells.
The new report to the planning committee shows that the environment watchdog SEPA has concerns that the nearby landfill site could create smells and even attract insects, birds and vermin.
SEPA has advised that “it could take a considerable amount of time for the landfill to stop producing gas” – which means odours could continue to be a risk long after the site stops accepting waste.
Hansteen Ltd have said that the development will bring much-needed jobs and housing and will give the area a huge economic boost, with up to 300 new jobs being created.
But over the years, the plans have been controversial.
Local residents have said they are worried about the pressure that would be put on health services, local schools, parking at Polmont station and the local road network.
Fears have also been raised that the development could cause flooding issues.
After years of debate, the decision was partly taken out of the council’s hands when plans for the site – including the 500 new homes – were included in the local development plan.
Hansteen Ltd have said that they will be making contributions totalling £8 million towards local education, affordable housing and transport infrastructure.
The developers also say they are also prepared to discuss possible sites for new healthcare facilities with NHS Forth Valley, which has said that the three GP practices in Meadowbank Health Centre are already operating at capacity.
A representative of Hansteen had been due to address Falkirk Council’s planning committee today (Wednesday) but the decision to visit the site means that will also be delayed.
Provost Buchanan told planning officials he was unhappy that such a major application had not been sent to the planning committee.
He said: “I had to call this in to allow scrutiny of planning issues and representations received and impacts on infrastructure.
“I am also disappointed there are no photographs and I think there must be an opportunity for this committee to see the problems that could be associated with this development.”
His wish to go to a site visit was backed by other members.
Don't miss the latest news from Falkirk - Sign up to our daily newsletter here .
