THE company behind plans for an 85-home development in Kilwinning has responded to concerns raised about the proposal.

A dozen objection comments have now been submitted on the plans via the council's online planning portal following the submission in July.

The proposals are to create a development of 85 three and four-bedroom homes on vacant greenspace on land to the north of Hazeldene Park and west of the B778.

Concerns have been raised over the use of green space as a location, the effects on wildlife, the strain on infrastructure in the area, increased traffic on the road and that homes did not align with local housing needs.

However, developer Keepmoat has looked to allay fears, adding that a number of steps were taken prior to submitting plans to take all of these factors into consideration.

As part of the application process, transport, flood risk, environmental and ecological assessments had to be carried out - as well as local consultations.

It added that these assessments in particular were carried out independently - and not by Keepmoat itself.

Ross Martindale, technical director at Keepmoat Scotland, said: “Before submitting planning we coordinated both a community consultation event and an independent assessment into the land.

"The latter found the site at Kilwinning is not subject to any environmental designations of local or national importance.

"The assessment also found that the site makes limited contributions to biodiversity. Any habitats within the site, such as hedgerows, will be preserved and enhanced where possible. 

“The proposed development includes the provision of a high-quality amenity space, communal and private growing space and gardens which provide opportunities for biodiversity enhancement.

"The proposals will incorporate an area of Sustainable Drainage Systems which will provide a sustainable flood risk solution and an additional biodiverse habitat."

It was also added that the site has been highlighted by North Ayrshire Council as one where housing could be developed.

Mr Martindale continued: “In addition, the site is allocated for housing in the North Ayrshire local development plan and will feature a diverse range of new homes to give buyers at different stages of the property ladder an opportunity to purchase a home.

"It is also within walking distance of bus stops and a train station.

“We are continuing to work directly with residents to collect their feedback so we can ensure that the development will benefit local people, the local community and the local environment.”

The planning application can be viewed in full via the council's online planning platform, searching for reference 23/00420/PPM.