500-home development in Polmont is unveiled

For 20 years, Hansteen Land Ltd has failed with its attempts to create a development on land at the Gilston Farm site in Polmont.

However, a planning permission in principle application to build 500 homes has now been lodged with the local authority.

Suitable for residential, commercial, retail, associated infrastructure and green space uses, the Gilston Park development will include 125 homes of affordable tenures, connected parks and a wetland area over half of the 55.6-hectare site.

Also included in the proposal are transportation works including new path networks, secondary access via a new roundabout on Gilston Crescent, provision for a new bus route through the site and the conversion of Nicolton Road into an active travel route.

Last summer, Falkirk councillors again refused planning permission for Hansteen’s application to bring 500 new homes to the area along with a hotel, restaurant and several offices.

At the time planning committee members said they were still reluctant to allow so many houses to be built on the site, which was earmarked for business and retail use.

Since then, a consultation process involving the local community was carried out online over the summer due to the temporary suspension of public events for major planning applications because of the coronavirus pandemic.

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A dedicated website provided details of the outline masterplan approach, and sought feedback or any alternative approaches from the public.

Feedback received stressed the importance of community facilities and infrastructure, particularly schools, healthcare and transportation.

Ken Haldane, Hansteen consultant, thanked those who contributed, and said: “Our vision for this area is to provide an attractive new neighbourhood with housing and business opportunities over the next ten years.

“We can offer new services or facilities within the site, such as healthcare or a nursery, should it be of interest to local providers.

“Delivery of the proposals will also bring development contributions towards any improvements to existing facilities.

“Further community and stakeholder consultation will be held in the future, including each stage of detailed proposals for individual phases.”

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