'Much-needed homes' for Falkirk village get the go-ahead from councillors

Plans to build 39 homes for social rent in the village of California were given the green light today (Wednesday) by Falkirk councillors.

The developers say they are in "detailed discussions" with C-urb Housing (part of Link Housing) to take on the new houses on once they are built.

The application to build on rough grassland - the site of a former coal mine - to the east of 1 Rosemead Terrace, Main Street, California, was approved by members of Falkirk Council 's planning committee after visiting the site.

Read more: Falkirk councillors give green light to 500 homes and new businesses in Polmont

At the meeting, Mike Andrews of Dundas Estates and Developments, told members: "In the midst of an ever-worsening housing crisis, this is an application for 39 much-needed affordable homes."

The company has been hoping to build on the site since it bought the land in 2007, just before the property market crashed.

Members of Falkirk Council's planning committee welcomed the plans to develop the new homes which will be a mixture of one, two and three bedroomed homes and include some that are accessible for wheelchairs.

The properties will be heated by air source heat pumps.

There has been some local opposition to the proposals, including concerns around the risk of flooding.

The application has been supported by detailed drainage information and agent John Garrett told the committee that creating a SUDS basin would control any excess water draining away.

"The development is likely to solve rather than exacerbate any pre-existing concerns in relation to surface water at the site," he said.

Members heard that California Primary School has plenty of space for new pupils although Braes High School is almost at capacity.

A contribution to improving Braes High of £2898.87 per dwelling house and £772.53 per flat, giving a total of £91,792.53, has been agreed.

The developers have also agreed to pay £20,400 towards play space provision; £27,200 towards parks/informal play/recreation provision and £8,500 towards greenspace/green corridors.

A bus stop near the site's entrance will also be relocated and a road crossing installed, both at the developers' expense.

Members also heard that access to an area of ground that is not owned by the developer would be needed but they have servitude rights to lay the drainage down there.

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