Councillors bid to get Saintfield allotments OK

Councillors bid to get Saintfield allotments OK

30 January 2013

TWO Rowallane councillors are hoping that the Planning Service officials will change their mind and approve plans for 20 new allotments outside Saintfield.

A recommendation to refuse approval for the vegetable gardens, a car parking area and ancillary buildings was put on hold at Monday night’s meeting of Down Council.

Councillors Robert Burgess and William Dick argued the refusal recommendation should be reconsidered and succeeded in securing an office meeting to further discuss the proposal.

Planners had ruled there were no “overriding reasons” why the proposed allotments at the Lessans Road are essential in a rural location.

Planning official, Mr. Jim Coates, explained concerns about the proposed development relate to the car park and ancillary buildings and the “visual impact” they would have on the countryside.

“We have no broad objection to the allotments, it’s the car park and proposed ancillary buildings which concern us,” he explained.

“If the proposed car park is reduced in size this could lead to vehicles parking close to the Lessans Road junction with the main Saintfield to Carryduff road.”

Councillor Burgess said Down Council supports the provision of allotments across the district and appealed to planners to defer the refusal recommendation to allow the matter to be discussed further.

Councillor Dick said it would be important to include the applicant in forthcoming discussions and suggested it may be possible to amend the scheme to secure planning permission.

Councillor Willie Clarke said when it comes to rural development there has to be an opportunity for diversification. He said the decision to refuse permission for the Saintfield allotments “goes against this.”

Councillor Clarke said the Planning Service has to “recognise the benefits” diversification in rural areas can provide, particularly with regard to job creation opportunities.