Balavil Estate is proposing to transform the Balavil Mains Farmhouse's traditional farm buildings as well as building new properties to create a shop, café and visitor facilities.
The site's listed farmhouse and steadings will be converted as well as extended to house office facilities and a shop. A new building will also be erected to the north of the site which will become a café and offer visitor facilities and a former mill building will be extended to provide space to host events. Other features include the formation of a car parking area and plans for staff facilities and bike storage.
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Cairngorms National Park Authority's Planning Officer Katherine Donnachie has recommended the development for approval, subject to various conditions.
A motion had been proposed to refuse the planning application based on concerns around economic impacts on nearby communities but this was defeated by 14 votes to two.
She said: "The principle of converting existing building stock into a new use is supported by policy in the Cairngorms National Park Local Development Plan as is the commitment to support the conversion and enhancement of listed buildings.
"This is a project which has the potential to boost the local economy and provide an added tourism offering in the area – and as well as being of good design – the project also provides an opportunity to secure improved pedestrian and cycle access through the Balavil Estate."
CNPA planning committee Convener Eleanor Mackintosh said: "I think the plans for these redundant buildings look really good. The design is sensitive and in keeping with the local culture and heritage and subject to conditions I support the project."
(LM)
