Solsgirth

In 2007, after a lengthy period of negotiation, Lomond Homes concluded a legal agreement and obtained planning permission for a development comprising 25 house plots, as well as a facility for helicopter flight (helipads, museum, café and supporting infrastructure) on a site set in attractive countryside, near Dollar, Clackmannanshire. A further planning consent was granted in 2008, allowing for a start on site with the development of the first 15 dwelling houses.

This project is different to other developments which the company normally embarks upon. However Solsgirth now reflects the diverse approach adopted by the Lomond Group as we look to expand and improve our product range.

At the outset bio-remediation was the key to this innovative approach, returning the contaminated environment back to its original, natural condition. During the process no material was removed from the site and no material imported. The treated material that remains will be used on-site for road construction and the creation of garden ground. What remains on site at present is an area of land which has been contaminated and left “fit for purpose” – a site engineered to accommodate development.

Remediation of this former colliery site (part of the Longannet deep mine complex) was completed in 2008 before any house was built, demonstrating the Lomond Group’s commitment to creating an exemplar of sustainability.

At a meeting with the First Minister in October 2008, Alex Salmond was so impressed with this development solution that he asked if he could officially open the site. Encouraged by the political support, we were keen to launch the project and develop as early as possible, and start on other similar projects such as Castlehill in Fife (read more).

The recession put a temporary hold on the Lomond Group’s development ambitions. This downturn in the economy required the company to rethink its strategy as housing demand and customer confidence dropped to an all time low. A different approach was required – a development solution in response to the difficult economic circumstances.

A further planning application has been submitted for an increase in the number of houses from 25 to 45. Registered in July 2009 this application is supported by an enabling argument, which reflects the costs of remediation; the effect on land values brought on by the recession; and the change in market conditions, as segments of the housing market demand a different and more affordable product.

The revised layout, which still incorporates the facility for helicopter flight (as described above), proposes houses which still reflect the same contemporary design philosophy, but achieve this with a smaller footprint when compared to the original planning permission. The outcome will be more houses of a smaller size, designed to appeal to customers in a different housing market.

The long negotiations with the Council are nearing completion and a positive decision is expected during February 2010.