Residents of a village south of Glasgow say they are "disappointed" at the council's plan to approve a housing development, despite a 285-signature petition against it.

East Renfrewshire Council's planning committee last night granted permission to builder Cala Homes West to build 20 houses and eight flats at Waterfoot near Eaglesham.

The Glasgow Evening Times has reported that campaigners have fought the plans.

Residents say the development will see a playpark replaced with a smaller one in a different location.


Local campaigner Sandy MacDonald, who lives close to the development site, said: "Our reaction is disappointment that the councillors didn't challenge the planning officials thoroughly and we're disappointed that a popular playpark is to be reduced from 4000sq m to 1300.

"Planners said that the proposed playpark is adequate for the size of development, but it doesn't take into account the hundreds of houses nearby whose children already use the park."

Mr MacDonald worried that the development, which is on greenbelt land, could lead to other developers moving in.

He said: "This is the thin end of the wedge and a breach of the green belt. It sets a precedent for other developers for further development."

The plans have been granted permission subject to conditions and the conclusion of a legal agreement relating to the delivery of affordable housing and securing a financial contribution from the developers.

A spokesman for Cala Homes (West) said: "We look forward to working closely with the local community on this development."

(NE)