Dalkeith developer in compromise

A developer has reached a compromise with opponents to his plans for the site of the former Lugton Inn, which were approved last week.

Demolition of the Lugton Inn, early 2012

The local review body overturned the original planning decision to reject the plans for five terraced town houses on the site.

However, immediately after the meeting the applicant Jamie O’Rourke spoke to local objectors to the plans for the former Dalkeith landmark, and agreed a compromise.

The site has remained vacant since the former pub was demolished in 2012.

Lugton Inn, Dalkeith

At the meeting last week, planning officers gave their reasons for objecting to the proposals, and local residents aired their concerns about the size of the proposed development and parking issues.

However, Councillor Alex Bennett (Lab) said: “I have not heard any planning reason for rejecting this application today.

“It’s the biggest eyesore in Dalkeith. The biggest scar in the town is that site.

“I would therefore support this application. I would ask the board to reconsider the refusal and grant the application because it’s going to do something to the site at last.”

Lugton Inn, Dalkeith

Shortly after the local review body meeting the applicant’s agent, Rick Finc of RFA Development Planning, contacted the Advertiser.

He said: “My client actually met with objectors after the meeting and he has agreed to a compromise.

“He is now going to go back to the council and propose that the building is reduced by a storey.

“He has taken on board the views from the community and what councillors said.

“That should alleviate some of the concerns.”

He added that his client hopes the new plans, which are for 20 flats there, will be only for those with special needs and disabilities.