Clackmannanshire Council has welcomed the Scottish Government's go-ahead for a spectacular new development at Forestmill.

The development, to include housing, a hotel, golf course and leisure and community facilities, was due to be the subject of an inquiry by the government, but following the approval of the Clackmannanshire Structure Plan 3rd Alteration, and in line with new planning regulations, this has been cancelled.

Analysis, carried out for developer the Muir Group, found that the proposed mix of affordable, mid-market and executive housing will well serve the continued population growth in the county.

While the development will complement existing visitor accommodation, with a championship level golf course and Clackmannanshire's only 100 room hotel attracting high-spending visitors, there are also local community facilities planned. Tennis courts, a new primary school, sheltered housing and a bowling green will benefit residents, along with a leisure centre which may be linked to the hotel. The developer will also restore and enhance the Meadowhill open case mine site.


Councillor Carrick, portfolio holder for sustainability, said: "This development is unique in central Scotland for its scope, which shows how attractive the county remains as a location, and we're pleased to have a committed developer on board who is in a strong financial position to see the project through."

Ronnie Muir, Director of the Muir Group, added: "We are delighted at the decision by the Scottish Government yesterday to revoke call-in of the Muir Group's outline development application at Forestmill. This demonstrates a positive approach which we in the housebuilding industry welcome, particularly in the current economic climate.

"Our proposals represent a multi-million pound investment for the local area and we are pleased the Scottish Government has chosen to endorse the decision originally taken by Clackmannanshire Council to support this project. We now look forward to working with the Council in preparation and anticipate that work could commence on site approximately two to three years from now."

(GK/JM)