Airthrey Kerse housing development rejected by councillors

The plans drew over 440 letters of objection

Plans for a major housing development at Airthrey Kerse in Bridge of Allan have been rejected by councillors.

Graham's The Family Dairy submitted the application which included plans for 600 homes and a new primary school.

The application was rejected by 12 votes to six at a special meeting of Stirling Council on Wednesday.

The company's managing director said the decision was "desperately short-sighted" and that it remained committed to the project.

More than 440 letters of objection were submitted, citing concerns over the impact on wildlife and pollution.

The plans attracted 76 expressions of support.

The company had said the project would enable them to finance plans for a new dairy and product development facility at the Hill of Drip farm and create 400 new jobs and 50 additional apprenticeships.

'Desperately short-sighted'

Graham's The Family Dairy managing director Robert Graham said: "This is a desperately short-sighted decision.

"It demonstrates the huge challenges that exist towards delivering investment in Stirling.

"In going against the recommendation of its officers and the advice of national agencies, the city has been done a huge and potentially long lasting disservice."

Mark Ruskell, Green councillor for Dunblane & Bridge of Allan said: "This is a momentous decision that has been the culmination of years of campaigning by our communities to protect the precious greenbelt of Airthrey Kerse."