The unanimous decision taken by the National Park Authority’s Planning & Access Committee marks positive progress towards bringing a long-identified site for housing a step closer to delivery. The approval also secured multiple benefits for the local community, from much-needed housing to improved infrastructure and facilities.

Proposed by the applicant Springfield M&M Homes Limited, the development includes 65 new houses, 43 for open market and 22 affordable homes, an extended public parking area, new public toilets and recycling facilities, and native landscaping, which will bring biodiversity benefits and new access and recreation opportunities for visitors and residents.

Claire Chapman, Planning & Access Committee chair, said: “The approval of this significant housing development on land that has been identified for housing for many years is a positive step forward for the local community and the wider area. This permission will deliver a multitude of benefits which extend beyond a much-needed boost to local housing availability.

“Permission for this application took into consideration local sensitivities and the need to deliver positive outcomes without placing pressure on local services, infrastructure, the surrounding landscape and biodiversity of the area. This decision also reflects priorities identified by residents through their own Local Place Plan, demonstrating how community-led planning can help to deliver positive place-based change for people and nature in the National Park.”

This decision comes as the National Park Authority works towards piloting a new Local Development and Land Use Plan (LDLUP), making it the first in Scotland to bring both planning and land use together under one integrated plan. This new plan will be informed by Local Place Plans, a robust evidence report and forthcoming public consultation.

From 2028-2038, the LDLUP will be used by the National Park Authority to set out where development should and shouldn’t happen, but also how land across the National Park could be used, managed and protected to deliver the best outcomes for nature, climate and people.

The delivery of the approved development in Drymen is now for the applicant to drive forward. The National Park Authority’s approval is subject to a Section 75 legal agreement and several conditions to ensure all planning requirements are met.