Flood risk could sink glamping plan

PLANS for the creation of glamping pods in a small Dumfriesshire village could be sunk due to concerns about flooding.
A Mr Duncan has submitted a planning application to Dumfries and Galloway Council for the siting of six glamping pods at Caitloch Plantation, around 2km north of Moniaive.
His proposals also include new roads access, a parking area, paths and turning area, installation of drainage, and using the Dhalwat Water for shower facilities.
The plans state: “At the moment, there is a large presence of campsites, lodges and static caravans around the Dumfries and Galloway area.
“The proposal would be providing an exciting new alternative to the area, providing guests with a secluded, high-quality glamping accommodation that is self sustaining and ecologically friendly.”
On conducting market research, the applicant states: “Moniaive currently has poor tourist accommodation facilities, limited to one small hotel and a couple of holiday homes, but has the potential for much more, as the village is an idyllic spot, with good quality restaurants and great pub scene, local availability of groceries and all just a gentle one mile walk along a country lane.
“The proposed development will also boost the local and rural economy and offers a stay for guests that has access to a vast and varied selection of amenities and attractions.
“We believe that the proposed development will be beneficial to this part of Dumfries and Galloway, without sacrificing the area’s ecology, landscape or residential amenity.”
The pods would be about 6.23m long, 3.80m wide with a shallow pitched roof, height 2.02m to eaves and about 3.15m to ridge.
The proposed finishes would be weathered timber to the walls and roof. Access to the site would be from the U394n public road directly into the car park where eight parking spaces would be provided.
However, council planning case officer Judith Turnbull is not convinced by the plans and has recommended that the glamping pods plans are refused.
Both the council flood risk management team and SEPA have expressed concerns about flooding on the site. According to SEPA, a flood risk assessment dated January 31, 2023 “does not sufficiently assess flood risk at the site or meet previously outlined requirements.”
Glencairn Community Council has also submitted an objection, expressing “grave concerns” about siting the glamping pods next to the U394n road, which they argue is a narrow, poorly kept and lit minor road.
Community councillors have also raised concerns about potential flooding on the site, and say there are several unanswered questions on infrastructure and power supply at the site.
The application will go before the council’s planning committee next Wednesday where councillors will make a final decision.