AN expansion of a planned Milltimber housing development has been rejected after locals warned approval would “cast doubt on the validity of democracy”.
Bancon Homes wanted to build another 19 houses on a site in the Aberdeen suburb, tweaking plans originally approved in 2021. The extra homes off North Deeside Road would have taken the size of the scheme from 80 to 99.
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But the developer has confirmed bosses could yet challenge the council’s decision-making. They only gained their initial planning permission through a similar appeal.
In a session on Thursday, council members interrogated Bancon executives regarding the community’s apprehensions about the development. Concerned locals argued that the additional housing would overburden already struggling educational institutions, lead to flooding issues, and cause severe traffic congestion.
The housing firm’s renewed enthusiasm to realize their initial vision of 99 homes in Milltimber incited anger among many in the area. In a formal objection letter, resident Nicholas Kelly expressed his frustration, stating that approving the housing plan would “cast doubt on the integrity of the enitre democratic process.”
Similarly, Dionne Shearer in her objection highlighted that the increased number of vehicles would only worsen the existing traffic problems in the suburb.
During the questioning, local councillor Marie Boulton was particularly adamant about the negative impact the expansion would have on the nearby educational institutions, and Martin Greig, the convener of the Education Committee, pointed out that the school system does not have the capacity to accommodate an additional 19 houses.
In response to the doubts raised, Natasha Douglas assured that Bancon was committed to contributing financially to the local schools, Milltimber Primary and Cults Academy, to help manage the increased demand.
Following the council’s decision, Jamie Tosh, the managing director of Bancon Homes, cautioned that the rejection would only exacerbate the “housing crisis” affecting the nation. He commented: “Unfortunately, the local community will miss out on over £1.7 million in developer contributions, affordable housing, and much-needed new homes.”
The development proposal was narrowly defeated by a single vote in the council’s planning committee. At present, the plans for 80 homes at Milltimber, which were initially approved, are set to proceed.
