A LOCAL farmer in Dalrymple has had his dreams of expanding his business crushed following opposition from Dalrymple Station House.

Norman Gemmal had applied to South Ayrshire planning committee for permission to build a dwellinghouse at the B7034 junction with the A77 trunk at Carcluie Cottage, a council boundary.

Addressing the panel, Mr Gemmal, said: "I have been running a business for nearly 10 years which I started from nothing and have grown it.

"The business has been restrained. We have been unable to bring in cattle. Despite this we have been allowed to grow. Business has been growing allowing us more equipment.

"I am married, I have a wife and two boys who are 11 and six. But I have to work away from home 12 hours a day which means I am away working on Christmas day. 

"They too need to be able to get into the industry. I am looking to take it forward for the next 10 years. I want my business to prosper."

Mr Gemmal owns the fields on the site and keeps 500 live stock.

Speaking for the opposition, Mary Sweeney, of Dalrymple Station House said: "I have read the report. Mr Gemmal has stated his intention to increase his business.

"Dalrymple station is a long established business and we remain the only coal business in South Ayrshire. Building a dwellinghouse within this area exceeds business requirements which must be considered.

"There is no need for a house hear. It would cause a break out in disease, such as foot and mouth, increase vermin and this would have a detrimental affect on our business."

Another protester, Rita Roberts, added: "Another problem is that the application has no proper business plan."

The panel was recommended to refuse the application on the basis until the plan and objections have been clarified.