East Lothian Planning Committee has approved plans for 14 flats and the demolition of the former House and Golf Hotel in North Berwick, overturning planner recommendations and facing significant local opposition.

Despite planners recommending refusal for the 14-flat development at Dirleton Avenue, citing concerns about visitor accommodation and the preservation of the conservation area, the committee voted 6-4 in favor of granting permission. 35 objections were received for this application.

In a separate application, the committee also approved the demolition of the vacant hotel building, which is within the North Berwick Conservation Area, to be replaced by a four-story flatted building. 27 objections were submitted for the demolition. The committee voted 6-4 to grant permission for the demolition.


Both applications, submitted by Caledonian Heritable Ltd, were brought before the committee by Councillor McFarlane due to the council's Affordable Housing Crisis. Final decisions on both applications will be made after a bat survey is completed, and Scottish Ministers will be informed of the demolition consent, with the option to call the application in for review.

In a separate matter, retrospective permission for a dog exercise and day care business at Thorntonloch, Innerwick, was granted for one year only. The committee voted 8-1 to approve the application, with a condition restricting operating hours to 8:30 am to 1 pm, Monday to Friday. This application was brought to the committee by Councillor Jardine due to local concerns. One objection was received.