New affordable and private housing is to be constructed at Lephain, on the outskirts of Tobermory, Isle of Mull.

The developments have been agreed by under a masterplan for the area, which will also include the creation of commercial properties.

The local authority, Argyll and Bute Council, has said a medium-scale housing scheme would be constructed and comprise of affordable housing, land for business expansion, a road and footpath network, as well as an element of structural planting.

In addition, an area of light industrial use would be delivered behind the island biscuit bakery, with up to 12 low density housing units – half of which would be affordable units, primarily for employees of the bakery or the nearby Sgriobruadh farm.

It is understood a phased approach would be taken for the scheme in order to reduce the impact on the surrounding environment.


Further information on the plans can be found here.

Councillor Roddy McCuish, Chair of the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee, said: "This is great news for the area. I particularly welcome the creation of affordable housing units for local employees.

"We want industrial developments because they create jobs but we need to ensure that there is modern, warm and safe housing for the people doing the jobs. One is intrinsically linked to the other and I am pleased to see this common sense approach being taken."

Councillor David Kinniburgh, Policy Lead for Planning, added: "This is a real good news story for the area and will allow for the site to be developed in a sensible, sustainable way which benefits both the developer and the community.

"This is a key focus of the council's overall planning policy; we work to support the ambitions of individuals while protecting the interests of the wider community, in this instance local people working at the nearby businesses.

"The overall focus of the council's planning service is on making things happen, supporting sustainable economic growth and regeneration. This is another demonstration of our open for business approach, working with developers to ensure a best fit for all."

(JP/MH)