Frequently Asked Questions
Why are we consulting with the public?
Miller Homes Ltd. is inviting the public, community groups and other stakeholders to view emerging proposals and to provide feedback. Feedback will help to identify any issues and will inform how the project could progress.
Why have we not held a public face to face event?
At this time, a public consultation event (face-to-face) is not possible due to the ongoing Coronavirus Pandemic and the consequential Regulations set out by Scottish Government. More information on the Scottish Governments decision to temporarily suspend the requirement for a ‘public event’ can be found here
Will the proposal include affordable housing?
The proposal is for a residential development of up to 300 homes, this will include the provision of 10% of dwellings for affordable housing. This is in line with West Lothian Councils Local Development Plan. The detail of the affordable housing, including the provider of it will be determined at a later stage.
What type of homes would be built?
The final layout and the detail of the house types will be considered at a later detailed planning application stage, following the granting of Planning Permission in Principle (PPP). However, it is likely that the development will provide a for a mix of two, three and four-bedroom detached and semi-detached homes suitable for a range of buyers, including first-time buyers and families.
When might an application be submitted?
Miller Homes intend to submit a Planning Application for Planning Permission in Principle to West Lothian Council in late 2021 / early 2022.
Why are we proposing development in the countryside and why now?
Having regard to the adopted LDP, the site is designated as Countryside. As part of our potential future application, Miller Homes will conduct a full assessment of the site against the local development plan.
This will also take into account the conclusions of technical assessments and other matters such as the Council’s effective housing land supply of which we believe that there is a significant shortfall. Miller believes that the development of this site can contribute towards meeting this shortfall.
What benefits are there from the development?
The development will bring a number of benefits e.g.
- The development of new homes will attract new families to the area and this can help to sustain and enhance local businesses, facilities and public transport in the longer term;
- In the shorter term, the development will create a number of jobs during the construction; a proportion of these jobs and employment opportunities can often be local to the area. Furthermore, construction will help to sustain local shops and services;
- There is an opportunity to enhance access to the countryside through the creation of new and improved paths and cycleways; as well as to help promote existing recreational routes e.g. the Shale Trail
