AN APPLICATION for a second hand motor vehicle dealer’s licence in Hightae has been given the green light.
Mark Cuthbertson, of the boutique guest house The Hightae Inn, applied to Dumfries and Galloway Council in February of this year for permission to sell second hand cars from the hamlet premises.
And last week his application was approved by councillors of the Licensing Panel, despite objections from locals.
Mr Cuthbertson’s new licence allows him to store no more than two vehicles for trade on the business premises, and parking associated with the site must not be displaced onto the road.
In an email to the panel, Mr Cuthbertson explained that the sale of any vehicles will be online, with viewings by appointment only.
He wrote: “There will be no traditional ‘car dealership’ sales forecourt set up.
“I have been buying and selling cars privately for many years from this premises. It is a hobby more than anything else.
“I simply wish to continue doing this as a ‘trader’ to avoid an additional ‘keeper’ on the DVLA document.”
He further offered assurances to objectors commenting on traffic volume and vehicle movements that since the restaurant and public bar are no longer operated, they have three bedrooms bringing a maximum of 3-4 cars to the site, and generate less road traffic than they did ten years ago.
