March 27 2018

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park has approved the development of 20 affordable homes in Balmaha by Rural Stirling Housing Association, helping to meet demand for accommodation in the area among local workers.

Consisting of 12 houses and eight flats the project will be made available to rent and shared equity ownership with two additional plots reserved for self-builders.

Designed by John Gilbert Architects the scheme falls under a five-year park plan through to 2023, a key consideration for which is the provision of a wider range of housing options to arrest population decline.

Petra Biberbach, chair of the park’s planning & access committee, said: “Housing is a key issue in the national park, which is one of the most expensive places in Scotland to buy a home. This combined with the ageing population of the area, means it is increasingly difficult for younger, working age people and families to live in the park. That has a knock-on effect for the sustainability of communities.

“Whilst some trees in the area will have to be removed to allow the development to go ahead, the trees earmarked for removal have been identified as young and not considered ancient woodland. The mature oak trees which are the most valuable feature of the woodland will remain and further planting of native species at the site is planned.”

Margaret Vass, chair of Rural Stirling Housing Association added: “This development will help to support the local economy and stem the depopulation of Balmaha due to the high number of second and holiday homes pricing local residents out of the housing market."

The 12 month build will move on-site in Martch 2019.

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