Plans have been approved to redevelop historic farm buildings near Kingussie in the Highlands.

Balavil Estate is proposing to transform the Balavil Mains Farmhouse's traditional farm buildings as well as building new properties to create a shop, café and visitor facilities.

The site's listed farmhouse and steadings will be converted as well as extended to house office facilities and a shop. A new building will also be erected to the north of the site which will become a café and offer visitor facilities and a former mill building will be extended to provide space to host events. Other features include the formation of a car parking area and plans for staff facilities and bike storage.

-- Advertisement --

Cairngorms National Park Authority's Planning Officer Katherine Donnachie has recommended the development for approval, subject to various conditions.

A motion had been proposed to refuse the planning application based on concerns around economic impacts on nearby communities but this was defeated by 14 votes to two.

She said: "The principle of converting existing building stock into a new use is supported by policy in the Cairngorms National Park Local Development Plan as is the commitment to support the conversion and enhancement of listed buildings.

"This is a project which has the potential to boost the local economy and provide an added tourism offering in the area – and as well as being of good design – the project also provides an opportunity to secure improved pedestrian and cycle access through the Balavil Estate."

CNPA planning committee Convener Eleanor Mackintosh said: "I think the plans for these redundant buildings look really good. The design is sensitive and in keeping with the local culture and heritage and subject to conditions I support the project."

(LM)