Perth and Kinross continues to see a vibrant mix of development proposals and planning decisions, reflecting the region’s dynamic balance between growth, heritage preservation, and environmental concerns. Recent weeks have brought clarity to several significant projects across the area, from large-scale housing in Perth to unique rural tourism ventures and the rejection of a controversial woodland retreat near Dunkeld.
A major residential initiative in Perth is now set to move forward after a crucial legal agreement was finalised. The development, earmarked for the former Hillside Hospital site on Dundee Road, received outline planning permission in 2024. This latest step, involving a Section 75 agreement, formally secures provisions for affordable housing, ensuring that 72 new homes will contribute positively to the city’s housing needs. The plans, brought forward by Yeoman McAllister Architects, detail the construction of modern flats, comprising eighteen one-bedroom units, fifty-two two-bedroom residences, and two spacious three-bedroom options. Once completed, these homes will be managed by the Hillcrest Housing Association, a prominent organisation based in Dundee, known for its commitment to providing quality social housing. This development is a key step in regenerating a brownfield site and addressing the ongoing demand for accessible accommodation within the community. Aberfeldy’s Historic Gem to Be Revitalised for the Arts
Further north, near Aberfeldy, a B-listed property, Torr Hill House on Urlar Road, is poised for an exciting transformation. Constructed in 1899, the grand residence has, unfortunately, fallen into disrepair over recent years. However, new proposals aim to breathe fresh life into the building, envisioning its future as a hub for creative arts. The comprehensive renovation project focuses on both extensive repairs and internal alterations, carefully designed to safeguard the building’s distinct architectural and historical essence. Planners have emphasised the use of traditional materials and detailing to maintain the property’s original character while enhancing its functionality for its new purpose. The estate will also see the addition of new, purpose-built structures, intended to serve as teaching spaces and provide short-term rental accommodation, further establishing Torr Hill House as a vibrant centre for artistic learning and cultural tourism in the heart of Perthshire. Sustainable Tourism on Logiealmond Farmland
In Logiealmond, plans are advancing for an innovative holiday lodge concept that blends rural tourism with agricultural education. A single, rustic one-bedroom accommodation unit is proposed for a local farm, featuring attractive timber cladding and a level timber walkway connecting it seamlessly to a designated car park. This project is much more than just a place to stay; it’s designed as an “on-farm stay” experience, offering guests a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in sustainable farming and environmental practices. The marketing strategy for this venture aims to connect consumers directly with food producers, promoting a ‘farm to fork’ ethos and potentially boosting ancillary sales of locally grown produce to visitors. Furthermore, the design includes full accessibility features, ensuring that guests with disabilities can also enjoy this distinctive rural retreat, enriching Perthshire’s diverse tourism offerings. Dunning Prepares for New Residential Growth
The village of Dunning is also on the cusp of significant expansion, with a new housing development planned for its outskirts, specifically off Auchterarder Road. Local developer Campion Homes is behind the project, which has the capacity to deliver between 43 and 68 new residential units. The scale of this development suggests a notable impact on the village’s infrastructure and community services. In light of this, two public consultation events have been scheduled for early October and early November, providing local residents with an opportunity to review the proposals, ask questions, and offer feedback. Such consultations are vital in ensuring that new developments align with the community’s vision and address potential concerns regarding amenities, traffic flow, and the preservation of local character. Dunkeld ‘Escape’ Hut Rejected Amid Community Concerns
However, not all rural planning applications in Perthshire have been met with approval. A proposal for a recreational and leisure hut on a site at Dungarthill, near the scenic town of Dunkeld, has faced outright rejection from Perth and Kinross Council. The applicant had intended for the hut to serve as a personal retreat, offering an escape from the stresses of work and daily life, as well as providing accommodation for friends and family. Despite this personal objective, the application attracted substantial local opposition, with eleven formal objections lodged by neighbours. Concerns voiced included residents being “deeply concerned” and noting “significant public concern” regarding the plans. The council ultimately refused the application, citing adverse visual impact on the surrounding area and an unacceptable level of harm to the local landscape character. This decision underscores the importance placed on protecting Perthshire’s cherished natural beauty and ensuring that development respects the visual amenity of its rural settings. The applicant now has a three-month window to lodge an appeal against the council’s ruling.
These recent planning decisions collectively highlight the ongoing evolution of Perth and Kinross, as local authorities and communities navigate the complexities of modern development, economic growth, and the vital conservation of the region’s unique natural and built heritage. Each outcome contributes to shaping the future character and liveability of this diverse Scottish landscape.
A major residential initiative in Perth is now set to move forward after a crucial legal agreement was finalised. The development, earmarked for the former Hillside Hospital site on Dundee Road, received outline planning permission in 2024. This latest step, involving a Section 75 agreement, formally secures provisions for affordable housing, ensuring that 72 new homes will contribute positively to the city’s housing needs. The plans, brought forward by Yeoman McAllister Architects, detail the construction of modern flats, comprising eighteen one-bedroom units, fifty-two two-bedroom residences, and two spacious three-bedroom options. Once completed, these homes will be managed by the Hillcrest Housing Association, a prominent organisation based in Dundee, known for its commitment to providing quality social housing. This development is a key step in regenerating a brownfield site and addressing the ongoing demand for accessible accommodation within the community. Aberfeldy’s Historic Gem to Be Revitalised for the Arts
Further north, near Aberfeldy, a B-listed property, Torr Hill House on Urlar Road, is poised for an exciting transformation. Constructed in 1899, the grand residence has, unfortunately, fallen into disrepair over recent years. However, new proposals aim to breathe fresh life into the building, envisioning its future as a hub for creative arts. The comprehensive renovation project focuses on both extensive repairs and internal alterations, carefully designed to safeguard the building’s distinct architectural and historical essence. Planners have emphasised the use of traditional materials and detailing to maintain the property’s original character while enhancing its functionality for its new purpose. The estate will also see the addition of new, purpose-built structures, intended to serve as teaching spaces and provide short-term rental accommodation, further establishing Torr Hill House as a vibrant centre for artistic learning and cultural tourism in the heart of Perthshire. Sustainable Tourism on Logiealmond Farmland
In Logiealmond, plans are advancing for an innovative holiday lodge concept that blends rural tourism with agricultural education. A single, rustic one-bedroom accommodation unit is proposed for a local farm, featuring attractive timber cladding and a level timber walkway connecting it seamlessly to a designated car park. This project is much more than just a place to stay; it’s designed as an “on-farm stay” experience, offering guests a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in sustainable farming and environmental practices. The marketing strategy for this venture aims to connect consumers directly with food producers, promoting a ‘farm to fork’ ethos and potentially boosting ancillary sales of locally grown produce to visitors. Furthermore, the design includes full accessibility features, ensuring that guests with disabilities can also enjoy this distinctive rural retreat, enriching Perthshire’s diverse tourism offerings. Dunning Prepares for New Residential Growth
The village of Dunning is also on the cusp of significant expansion, with a new housing development planned for its outskirts, specifically off Auchterarder Road. Local developer Campion Homes is behind the project, which has the capacity to deliver between 43 and 68 new residential units. The scale of this development suggests a notable impact on the village’s infrastructure and community services. In light of this, two public consultation events have been scheduled for early October and early November, providing local residents with an opportunity to review the proposals, ask questions, and offer feedback. Such consultations are vital in ensuring that new developments align with the community’s vision and address potential concerns regarding amenities, traffic flow, and the preservation of local character. Dunkeld ‘Escape’ Hut Rejected Amid Community Concerns
However, not all rural planning applications in Perthshire have been met with approval. A proposal for a recreational and leisure hut on a site at Dungarthill, near the scenic town of Dunkeld, has faced outright rejection from Perth and Kinross Council. The applicant had intended for the hut to serve as a personal retreat, offering an escape from the stresses of work and daily life, as well as providing accommodation for friends and family. Despite this personal objective, the application attracted substantial local opposition, with eleven formal objections lodged by neighbours. Concerns voiced included residents being “deeply concerned” and noting “significant public concern” regarding the plans. The council ultimately refused the application, citing adverse visual impact on the surrounding area and an unacceptable level of harm to the local landscape character. This decision underscores the importance placed on protecting Perthshire’s cherished natural beauty and ensuring that development respects the visual amenity of its rural settings. The applicant now has a three-month window to lodge an appeal against the council’s ruling.
These recent planning decisions collectively highlight the ongoing evolution of Perth and Kinross, as local authorities and communities navigate the complexities of modern development, economic growth, and the vital conservation of the region’s unique natural and built heritage. Each outcome contributes to shaping the future character and liveability of this diverse Scottish landscape.