A housing estate plan for up to 85 homes on farmland in Symington has been rejected. Gladman Developments wanted to erect the properties in Brewlands Road in the village.

A bid to build on the greenfield land was previously turned down by South Ayrshire Council. Politicians attended a special full council meeting today to weigh up again if planning permission in principle should be approved. 

Simon Dean, of Gladman, told councillors the new homes were needed to combat a housing shortfall in the area. He said: “There isn’t enough housing being built in South Ayrshire to meet targets.”  He said people want to buy homes in Symington. But villagers who packed into County Buildings voiced fears their historic settlement would be transformed into a commuter zone.

Resident Julie Howie pointed out that homes were £200,000 cheaper in Symington compared to some parts of South Glasgow. She said: “It is fair to assume that a significant amount of home owners would commute to Glasgow.”

Describing the site, she said: “The land is currently used for grazing cows and sheep.”

She added: “Large amounts of wildlife would be tarmacked over. Once gone it can never be reinstated.

Council planner David Love said the proposed plot was not an allocated housing site. Officials recommended refusal for the application, which was judged as contrary to the local development plan.

Planners said it has not been demonstrated that there is a need for residential development in the area. And it was judged the proposed development would place existing properties at significant risk of flooding. There were 29 objections overall including one lodged by Symington Community Council.

Residents feared the conservation character of the village would be destroyed. The meeting heard the primary school is already full.

The Ayrshire Roads Alliance was also against the proposal because of flooding risks. Councillor Andy Campbell said: “I’m not sure why this is back with us at all.” Councillor Mary Kilpatrick added: “I have no idea why it is here.” Councillor Brian McGinley said additional information presented regarding the application was not “significant.”

He added: “This whole panel has had to meet again.” Councillor Philip Saxton proposed refusal, which was seconded by Councillor Peter Convery.