Decision on controversial plans for holiday lodges at Dame Ann Gloag's Highland castle delayed until next year
Controversial plans by business tycoon Dame Ann Gloag for a holiday development at her Beaufort Castle estate near Beauly are expected to be determined early next year, following a last-minute delay.
A decision was expected to be made this week by Highland councillors, but it was put off after a late representation was made.
The project, to include 50 lodges and a glamping field plus a small retail area and café, is seen as having potential to generate economic benefits for the local area.
But it has attracted strong objections from locals and forestry officers.
They are worried about road safety, the loss of woodland and effluent entering the River Beauly.
Planning officers had recommended it be granted permission in principle, subject to 20 conditions, in a report due to be discussed at the south planning applications committee meeting on Tuesday.
However, it is now expected to be decided in February.
The application has been lodged under the name of Edinburgh-based Gloag Investments and is being handled by Angus Dodds of Savills Planning in Edinburgh.
"We were notified by the council’s development management team on Monday afternoon that they would be advising members not to consider the application on Tuesday," Mr Dodds said.
"This was to allow planners to amend their report to rectify a procedural matter and re-present this to the next available committee on February 2, 2021."
A Highland Council spokeswoman said following receipt of a late representation, it was decided not to consider the item and allow officers further time to reflect on the issues raised within the representation.
"These relate to the application of policy within the assessment contained within the report," she said.
Related story: Controversial plans by Dame Ann Gloag for holiday lodges at her castle estate are recommended for approval
