AN APPLICATION for a driveway to be formed onto a main road in Moffat has been refused by councillors.
Planning permission was submitted for access from 16 Fingland Court onto the A708, also known as The Holm.
The applicant stated there are no reserved parking areas in the housing estate, often leading to “cars being parked on the main roadway”.
Proposals were before councillors on the Planning Applications Committee yesterday following an objection from Moffat Community Council, a statutory consultee, due to road safety concerns.
Officers had recommended that the plans be approved.
Members stated in their objection: “Members felt that it would be dangerous for this property to have access onto the Holm Road. The Holm road is the main road out of Moffat to the east. The proposed access crosses the footpath which is part of the walking route to Moffat Academy.”
They added that approval would “set a precedent” for other residents whose properties face onto the road.
At yesterday’s planning committee meeting, Cllr Stephen Thompson said: “I’m quite uncomfortable about this, simply because of the cycle path, active cycle routes and proximity to the school.
“We should really take into account how important active travel routes are and what this does to the integrity of that particular path and cycle way.”
Cllr Jane Maitland put forward a motion to reject the plans, arguing the proposal “does not encourage active and more sustainable transport” as it would make walking along the pavement “less desirable”.
Her motion was supported by a majority of members and the application was refused.
