Plans for a new rural business in the Cairngorms National Park were approved yesterday despite concerns it would adversely affect an old church and an ancient monument.
Alistair and Ingrid Kendal, who operate a “DIY” livery service on the site wanted to expand their business by offering clients a full livery service, which meant they needed to live on site and have permanent stabling for the horses.
They submitted a planning application to the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) to build a house and outdoor horse livery on land to the east of the B970 Kingussie to Grantown road, opposite Balliemore, Nethy Bridge.
Members visited the site yesterday before meeting in Boat of Garten to consider the application.
They heard that the authority had received objections to the development, particularly in relation to how the new buildings would impact on the nearby Category C listed Abernethy Kirk and Castle Roy, which is a scheduled ancient monument.
Planning officer Katherine Donnachie said: “The development, subject to various conditions, complies with our local development plan policies and will provide a suitably designed and located house and sustainable business venture appropriate to the countryside location.”
And she recommend approval of the application.
CNPA planning committee convener Eleanor Mackintosh said: “We have given this proposal the utmost attention and scrutiny and the concerns from objectors have been fully considered.
“However, we are happy to support this application and welcome the addition of a new rural business in the Cairngorms National Park.”