Forestmill development boost for Clackmannanshire
Published on:
15
June 2009
Clackmannanshire Council is delighted that the Scottish Government has given the go-ahead for a spectacular new development at Forestmill. The development, to include housing, a hotel, golf course and leisure and community facilities, was due to be the subject of an inquiry by the government, but following the approval of the Clackmannanshire Structure Plan 3rd Alteration, and in line with new planning regulations, this has been cancelled.
Analysis, carried out for developer the Muir Group, found that the proposed mix of affordable, mid-market and executive housing will well serve the continued population growth in the county.
While the development will complement existing visitor accommodation, with a championship level golf course and Clackmannanshire's only 100 room hotel attracting high-spending visitors, there are also local community facilities planned. Tennis courts, a new primary school, sheltered housing and a bowling green will benefit residents, along with a leisure centre which may be linked to the hotel. The developer will also restore and enhance the Meadowhill open case mine site.
Councillor Carrick, portfolio holder for sustainability, said, "The proposals for Forestmill are very exciting and will have a huge positive influence for people in Clackmannanshire. We're looking at £330 million of capital investment, creating an estimated 962 jobs. The Council's commitment to improved transport links such as the Clackmannanshire Bridge and the Stirling-Alloa-Kincardine rail link is paying off, as we start to attract high quality investment that will cater for our growing population.
"This development is unique in central Scotland for its scope, which shows how attractive the county remains as a location, and we're pleased to have a committed developer on board who is in a strong financial position to see the project through."
Ronnie Muir, Director of the Muir Group, added, "We are delighted at the decision by the Scottish Government yesterday to revoke call-in of the Muir Group's outline development application at Forestmill. This demonstrates a positive approach which we in the housebuilding industry welcome, particularly in the current economic climate. Our proposals represent a multi-million pound investment for the local area and we are pleased the Scottish Government has chosen to endorse the decision originally taken by Clackmannanshire Council to support this project. We now look forward to working with the Council in preparation and anticipate that work could commence on site approximately two to three years from now. We would like to thank Clackmannanshire Council for their professionalism and support in bringing forward this strategic investment project which we understand is the largest ever to come before this local authority."
Jamie MacSween, Chair of Clacks First business group, said "We are pleased that Forestmill has now been given the go-ahead as the business community in Clackmannanshire look forward to making the most of this new development and the opportunties that it will bring for local companies. In conjunction with the other work being undertaken by Clacks First we believe the development will further promote and enhance Clackmannanshire as the best place to do business in Central Scotland."
Council leader Janet Cadenhead also welcomed the news, saying "The Council has put a lot of effort into ensuring that this high quality development is sustainable, environmentally and economically. The government go-ahead will mean a considerable saving in time and money, and proves that a pro-active approach to planning can be successful.
"It's worth remembering that this is a long-term development. We believe in Clackmannanshire's potential and look forward to seeing Forestmill grow over the next 15 to 20 years. "
The development was further welcomed by Graham Struthers, the Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses' Forth Valley: "The proposals for the Forestmill Project will have some influence on everyone in Clackmannanshire, especially if a positive approach is taken toward involving the local businesses throughout the design and construction phases. The potential boost for the local construction industry and its suppliers by creating almost a thousand jobs is very welcome, especially in the current economic climate."